The Council of Economic and Development Affairs (CEDA) continues to pursue good governance, enhancing transparency and performance excellence, while taking into account ground realities and the global economic climate. The Council is supporting the realization of the Saudi Vision 2030 by focusing on 12 key initiatives that tackle important elements affecting citizens' lives, sustainable development, and economic stability. The seeds to achieve the Vision were sown this year with a series of initiatives. For instance, public entertainment has got a boost, while the housing sector is undergoing a transformation to attract partnerships from the finance and real estate sections. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has become the prime mover in the Kingdom's efforts to achieve a diverse economic base through several ambitious projects. As for service to pilgrims, work on the expansion of the Grand Mosque in Makkah will be completed this year. This will coincide with the completion of several housing projects carried out by the housing sector. Moreover, the allowances to government employees have now been reinstated. There are four components to the Kingdom's privatization program, as spelt out by the Deputy Minister of Economics in a recent interview. They are sports, electricity, water and grain silos, thereby supporting the Cabinet's resolution to proceed with the relevant regulatory steps in this regard. The CEDA has also announced other programs in support of national leaderships in industry and capital markets. These programs will be launched after specific committees complete the plans for their implementation by the third quarter of this year. Specialized sections have also been established within CEDA to ensure quality implementation of these programs, and their follow-up and evaluation. CEDA will hold individuals accountable for implementing the programs to ensure performance excellence and full transparency, in keeping with the principles of good governance. Undoubtedly, such follow up will transparently reflect the Council's keenness on performance and on holding negligent individuals accountable for their negligence.
