LISBON — Deputy Foreign Minister Eng. Walid Al-Khuraiji participated in the 10th Conference of the Alliance of Civilizations held in the Portuguese capital Lisbon. Al-Khuraiji delivered a speech in which he stressed the major global challenges, which require concerted efforts to promote values of cooperation and peaceful coexistence. He also said that the Alliance of Civilizations is not just a dialogue platform, but rather a lofty message that aims to enhance a deeper understanding between peoples and cultures, and to create bridges of communication that enable them to overcome differences and enhance common understanding. Al-Khuraiji renewed Saudi Arabia's call to intensify cooperation between governments, civil society, and cultural and educational institutions to consolidate these principles in coming generations to ensure a better future characterized by diversity and harmony. He pointed out that the Kingdom's participation in the conference confirms that Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is not limited to reducing dependence on oil and achieving economic growth, but is a national cultural project that seeks to build values of moderation and openness to other civilizations and cultures. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is a comprehensive system that aims to establish the foundations of cultural diversity and openness to the world, combat extremism and spread peaceful coexistence among different peoples. "This comes within its commitment to building a vibrant society and a prosperous economy, which enhances its positive role in the international community and contributes to achieving the goals of sustainable development." Al-Khuraiji Said. He also referred to the national experiences shared by Saudi Arabia through many initiatives that contributed to the establishment of the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID), the establishment of the United Nations Center for Counter-Terrorism, and the establishment of ITIDAL Center to combat extremist thought. Al-Khuraiji expressed Saudi Arabia's welcome to host the 11th session of the Alliance of Civilizations Conference next year.
