Beijing to host China-Saudi Investment Conference on Tuesday

Saudi Investment Minister Khalid al-Falih addresses the 10th Arab-China Business Conference in Riyadh on June 11, 2023. (AFP/File)
Short Url
Updated 10 December 2023
Follow

Beijing to host China-Saudi Investment Conference on Tuesday

  • The conference aims to enhance the strategic partnership between the two countries in investment, trade and the economy
  • Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih will also visit several Chinese cities to meet with business leaders

RIYADH: Beijing will host the China-Saudi Investment Conference on Tuesday on the sidelines of a visit by Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
The conference aims to enhance the strategic partnership between the two countries in investment, trade and the economy, and to support China’s Belt and Road Initiative to connect Asia with Africa and Europe.
More than 700 attendees are expected, including senior officials, CEOs, investors and entrepreneurs. 
They will review and discuss investment opportunities and initiatives aimed at fostering increased cooperation between the two countries.

The conference agenda includes dialogue sessions covering topics such as clean energy, finance, investment, mining, metals, tourism, entertainment, food security, agriculture, logistics services, shipping, supply chains, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, modern manufacturing industries, and advanced technology through workshops.

Al-Falih will also visit several Chinese cities to meet with business leaders. Technical teams from his ministry will conduct workshops and field visits to explore cooperation opportunities, with participation expected from representatives in both the government and private sectors.

During the recent Asia Future Investment Initiative Priority Summit in Hong Kong, Al-Falih took part in a symposium where he emphasized the Middle East’s pivotal role in fostering prosperity among Southern countries.
He stressed the significance of energy and digital transformation as tools for achieving development.

Diplomatic ties between the two countries span over 30 years, with China currently Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner. Bilateral trade and investment have grown significantly in recent years.


Celestial spectacle in KSA’s north on first day of Ramadan

Updated 19 February 2026
Follow

Celestial spectacle in KSA’s north on first day of Ramadan

  • Venus-crescent moon alignment visible in Northern Borders
  • Meteorology center issuing swift weather alerts for pilgrims

ARAR/JEDDAH: The holy month of Ramadan has commenced in the Kingdom with a striking astronomical display in the Northern Borders Region, setting a serene tone for the month, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In addition, the National Center for Meteorology has confirmed its readiness to support pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.

On Tuesday evening in Arar there was a rare alignment of the planet Venus with the slender crescent moon marking the first day of Ramadan.

Appearing shortly after sunset, the crescent shimmered low on the western horizon above Venus — one of the brightest celestial bodies — in a display enhanced by clear skies.

While the conjunction is a recurring astronomical phenomenon caused by the apparent proximity of the two bodies as viewed from Earth, its coincidence with the start of the holy month added a special aesthetic and spiritual dimension to the atmosphere in the north, the SPA said.

The plan includes heightened performance levels at observatories in the Kingdom’s airports to manage increased flight traffic and aviation safety. (SPA)

Meanwhile, as the faithful began fasting, the NMC announced the readiness of its observatories at the Kingdom’s airports to manage increased flight traffic and ensure aviation safety.

The NCM’s CEO Dr. Ayman bin Salem Ghulam said there would be round-the-clock weather monitoring for Makkah, Madinah, and the roads leading to the two holy mosques.

To ensure pilgrims have real-time access to information, the NCM has integrated its data with the Nusuk and Tawakkalna smart applications. Ten-day forecasts and alerts will also be available via the Anwaa app and on guidance boards along highways.

The center has 14 media platforms to deliver swift weather alerts, ensuring high standards of security and logistical support throughout the season, the SPA reported.