RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Salman’s personal invitation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to attend the special meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Riyadh highlights the close relationship between the two leaders, said Malaysian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah.
He described this as a significant development in Malaysia’s relationship with Saudi Arabia and between the two leaders.
Wan Zaidi said the Prime Minister would be accompanied by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Bernama reported.
He mentioned that Mohamad also received a personal invitation from his Saudi counterpart, Foreign Minister Faisal Farhan Al Saud, to attend the WEF special meeting.
He added that the meeting, scheduled to take place at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Centre for two days starting today, is themed “Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development”.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in a panel session on the theme of “New Vision for Global Development” alongside other leaders during the opening of the special meeting.
In addition, Anwar will participate in the Joint Regional Strategy Dialogue on the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council, aimed at highlighting Malaysia’s role as Asean chair in 2025.
The Prime Minister will deliver the keynote speech during this session.
Wan Zaidi said the Prime Minister will also participate in the National Strategy Dialogue programme, in which he will engage with global industry leaders to highlight economic opportunities in Malaysia.
“We believe that this WEF special meeting can help Malaysia in its ongoing efforts to showcase the investment opportunities available in the country to global business leaders and international companies,” he said.
During the working visit, the Prime Minister will also hold meetings with heads of state and government to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation as well as to exchange views on regional and international affairs.
Wan Zaidi emphasised the importance of the WEF special meeting in obtaining global cooperation to ensure sustainable development for the future and to prepare for a scenario where traditional energy sources are no longer the primary source.
He expressed his belief that Anwar would also use the platform to highlight Malaysia’s interests and voice the country’s stance on geopolitical issues.
