RIYADH — The Saudi-Arab-African Economic Conference is scheduled to take place next Thursday in Riyadh, with the participation of a number of leaders, decision-makers and officials in Saudi Arabia, Arab and African countries. The conference, to be held at the Hilton Hotel in the Saudi capital, will also witness the participation of financial, business and investment leaders from the government and private sectors, trade federations, international organizations, and prominent figures in academic circles and think tanks. Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan confirmed that the Royal endorsement for hosting this conference reflects the keenness of the wise leadership in consolidating Saudi Arabia's relations with the African continent, which is one of the most important axes for the future of the global economy. This also comes as an extension of the Kingdom's efforts in enhancing the economic cooperation and coordination, and to benefit from the investment opportunities available in each country, Al-Jadaan stated. He indicated that the conference aims to consolidate the foundations of the Saudi, Arab and African partnership in a number of economic and investment aspects, including achieving food security, strengthening agricultural, industrial, mining and commercial partnership, and concluding new partnerships between African and Saudi entities. It also aims to create a platform for exporters and importers from both sides, and to review opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector and its sustainability to enable and enhance economic growth. The minister added that the conference is also seeking to provide a platform for international and regional development banks, institutions and funds whose ideas and projects can be explored through dialogues and discussions that will be addressed within the conference activities. This will also constitute an opportunity to highlight the attractiveness of the investment environment in Saudi Arabia and the African countries. The conference will have seven sessions, where a number of officials, leaders and decision-makers in the economic, financial and investment sectors will participate to shed light on topics such as the role of sustainable energy partnerships and their importance in facilitating the access to energy sources. The topics also include strengthening cooperation frameworks to achieve food security, investing in business development, infrastructure, human capital, industry and mining, harnessing tourism for growth, and enhancing cooperation to achieve sustainable development. The Saudi-Arab-African Economic Conference is expected to witness the signing of a number of agreements. Those wishing to attend the conference can register at the following link: https://saaec.info/