Riyadh: The joint Saudi-French Ministerial Committee on AlUla held a meeting in Paris, chaired by Minister of Culture and Governor of the Royal Commission for AlUla Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-No«l Barrot.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the meeting was attended by various high-ranking officials including Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Investment Fahad Al-Saif, and Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Commission for AlUla Abeer Al-Akel. Representing France were Minister of Culture Catherine P©gard, Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry Roland Lescure, and Chairman of the French Agency for AlUla Development (AFALULA) Jean-Yves Le Drian.
At the start of the meeting, both sides welcomed the signing of an agreement to extend and amend the agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Government of the French Republic. This agreement focuses on the cultural, environmental, tourism, human, economic, and heritage development of AlUla Governorate.
The attendees reviewed the partnership's achievements and explored future collaboration avenues, highlighting the robust relations between the two countries. The discussions underscored AlUla's position as a global hub for culture, creativity, and sustainable development.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the partnership, which serves as a global model for international cooperation, enhancing comprehensive and sustainable development goals through mutual benefits and knowledge exchange.
The meeting also evaluated joint investments and ongoing collaborations in sectors such as archaeology, arts, culture, sports, hospitality, and human-capital development.
The partnership demonstrates a mutual dedication to sustainable development via strategic projects like the AlUla Tram and the Sharaan Resort, designed by Jean Nouvel. Additionally, investments in renewable energy, water, and mobility align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to attract one million visitors and global investments, while safeguarding AlUla's cultural and natural heritage.
