A delegation of 19 British companies from the southeast of England left Jeddah yesterday after attending a networking event organized by the British consulate in which they had one-to-one meetings with their counterparts in Saudi Arabia. The UK delegation's visit was aimed at keeping abreast of business and economic developments, identifying opportunities, and developing mutually beneficial relationships with Saudi counterparts. It was also meant to facilitate collaboration between the UK and Saudi Arabia in the health care sector, education and training, construction and recruitment. “I think that Saudi Arabia is growing in many sectors, and I sense that Saudi businessmen are interested in collaborating with British companies for British products as well as in the education sector. I got very positive vibes from Saudi businessmen regarding British companies involved in education and training. Also, Saudis are very keen on manufacturing plants, vocational training and the health care sector,” said Rosalind Marsh, the trade adviser and leader of the delegation. “We are very strong in the health care sector in southeast England and eight of the companies in the delegation specialize in health care. We can provide some very good opportunities for Saudi companies,” she said. “Our delegates are very positive and want to come back to build relationships to develop business. However, it is very important to understand the country and customer requirements. It is important to visit Saudi Arabia to understand the potential of the Saudi market and the opportunities for investment and business here,” she added. Marsh said that the British trade delegation wants to develop long-term relationships with Saudi Arabia and its people. Kate Rudd, the British Consul General, said, “UK trade and development is publicizing Saudi Arabia as the port in the global economic storm at the moment, as Saudi Arabia has been able to weather the economic storm far better than most other countries.” This is a good time for different countries to invest in Saudi Arabia, Saudi businessman, Sameer A. Shaikh, chairman of Shaikh Enterprises, said.
