RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and the US on Saturday agreed a “Joint Strategic Vision Declaration” covering aspects like diplomacy, trade, security and the fight against terror.
It was co-signed by King Salman and US President Donald Trump at the Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.
The White House said in a statement that the declaration reflects the two countries’ efforts to boost “their strategic partnership for the 21st century” and to chart “a renewed path toward a peaceful Middle East where economic development, trade and diplomacy are hallmarks of regional and global engagement.”
The two nations plan to form a Strategic Joint Consultative Group, hosted by the US president and Saudi king, or their appropriate representatives, to chart the course of this strategic partnership. It will meet at least once a year, alternating between the two countries.
“Our two great countries share a desire to address the threats to our shared security interests. Thus, the United States of America and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia seek to embark on new initiatives to counter violent extremist messaging, disrupt financing of terrorism, and advance defense cooperation,” the White House statement said.
“Violent extremists who threaten peace in the Middle East will find a growing group of regional partners arrayed against them, confronting their aggression and sowing the seeds of peace.
“A robust, integrated regional security architecture is critical to our cooperation. The United States of America and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia intend to expand engagement with other countries in the region over the coming years and to identify new areas of cooperation. Over the course of our history, the United States of America and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have developed a productive partnership built upon trust, cooperation, and shared interests. We now stand together to thwart our common enemies, to strengthen the bonds between us, and to chart a path towards peace and prosperity for all.”
Kingdom, Washington agree ‘Joint Strategic Vision Declaration’
Kingdom, Washington agree ‘Joint Strategic Vision Declaration’
SDAIA Academy opens registration for quantum computing boot camp
- 5 hours of daily training offered, from Jan. 11-15
RIYADH: The SDAIA Academy has opened registration for a five-day quantum computing boot camp aimed at building national capabilities in one of the world’s most advanced and complex computing fields.
The boot camp will run from Jan. 11 to 15, offering five hours of daily training, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
It is organized by the Saudi Data and AI Authority, in collaboration with the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, and targets professionals and specialists in computer science and related disciplines.
According to the SDAIA, the program is designed to equip participants with a foundational understanding of quantum computing and its potential applications, as Saudi Arabia steps up investments in advanced and emerging technologies, aligned with Vision 2030.
Quantum computing differs fundamentally from classical computing by relying on quantum mechanics rather than binary logic.
While still an emerging field, it is widely expected to reshape areas such as cybersecurity, optimization, advanced simulation and data-intensive research.
The boot camp will introduce participants to the physical and mathematical principles that underpin quantum computing, including the behavior of qubits, quantum superposition and entanglement.
It will also examine how quantum systems differ from traditional computing architectures and where quantum approaches may offer advantages.
In addition to theory, the program places a strong emphasis on applied training.
Participants will receive hands-on exposure to designing and running quantum algorithms using industry-recognized tools and platforms, including Qiskit and CUDA-Q.
These tools are currently used in research and early-stage development environments worldwide.
Organizers say the practical component aims to prepare participants to engage with real-world quantum computing workflows rather than limiting training to conceptual knowledge.
The goal is to build early-stage technical readiness among Saudi professionals, as global interest in quantum technologies accelerates.
The collaboration with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals reflects a broader push to link national digital initiatives with academic and research expertise.
KFUPM has played a central role in developing technical talent in engineering, computing and applied sciences, fields closely connected to quantum research.
The SDAIA has increasingly focused on capability-building programs that support Saudi Arabia’s long-term digital and data strategy.
Training initiatives in artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and emerging technologies are viewed as essential in reducing reliance on external expertise and strengthening local innovation ecosystems.
Officials say the quantum computing boot camp forms part of this wider effort to develop specialized skills that may not yet be widespread in the local labor market but are expected to become strategically important in the coming decade.
The program also aligns with the objectives of Vision 2030 related to human capital development and the transition toward a knowledge-based economy, particularly in high-value technology sectors.
Registration for the boot camp is open until Jan. 6. Applicants can register through the SDAIA’s official training platform.
