In an effort to drive its economic diversification, Saudi Arabia is intensifying its industrial and mining sector relations with the Netherlands, following a series of high-level visits and meetings. The Kingdom’s industry minister made a significant trip to the Netherlands, engaging with top manufacturing companies.
During a visit to the Philips Medical Devices factory in Eindhoven, the minister held discussions with company executives about advancing cooperation in the medical devices sector and the possibility of localizing the industry within Saudi Arabia.
The minister’s agenda in the Netherlands was focused on strengthening partnerships across various industrial fields. This included a visit to FrieslandCampina, where talks of setting up a research and development center in Saudi Arabia were initiated to improve local dairy production and processing standards.
Furthermore, the minister’s dialogue with the CEO of Upfield revolved around collaboration in consumer goods and plant-based food production, aiming to support food security and environmental sustainability objectives.
This diplomatic engagement is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to enhance its industrial and mining sectors, attracting quality investments, and expanding the reach of Saudi non-oil exports into the Dutch and European markets.
High-level discussions also took place with Dutch government officials, emphasizing the desire to bolster bilateral trade and consider partnership opportunities in areas such as manufacturing, advanced technology, and renewable energy.
The visit underscores the Kingdom’s potential and readiness to play a pivotal role in the industrial and mining arenas, coupled with its commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action through initiatives like the Saudi Green and Middle East Green projects.
Additionally, cooperation in logistics was a key topic during talks with officials at the Dutch Port of Rotterdam. The parties examined Saudi Arabia’s crucial role in supplying essential minerals for the global supply chain and potential investment collaborations in metal processing and recycling.
At the Geospatial World Forum held earlier, a Saudi official highlighted the significance of geospatial information in supporting informed decision-making within the expanding Saudi economy.
