Under the strategic direction highlighted in Vision 2030, protection of the nation’s vital resources is imperative to the creation of an ambitious and effectively governed nation RIYADH: Saudi Agriculture Exhibition 2019, held under the patronage of the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, concluded on Thursday after a successful run featuring the latest technological advancements and agricultural innovations. Held concurrently with the Saudi Aquaculture, Saudi Food Packing and Saudi Agro-Food expos from Oct. 21 to 24 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center, the show attracted thousands of visitors. Mohammad Al-Sheikh, head of marketing and corporate communication at the Riyadh Exhibitions Co., the organizer of the event, said the exhibition succeeded in developing opportunities for the agricultural sector in the Kingdom by supporting sustainable projects and ideas that are environment-friendly and developed using the latest technologies. On the sidelines of the Saudi Aquaculture expo, the Saudi Aquaculture Society signed an agreement with the Association of Restaurants and Cafes aiming to increase seafood consumption. The four-day exhibition supported sustainable agricultural innovations as envisaged in Saudi Vision 2030 for the agricultural sector. HIGHLIGHT The exhibition hosted nine international pavilions and more than 380 exhibitors representing 34 countries, exceeding the number of exhibitors from last year by 11 percent. Under the strategic direction highlighted in Vision 2030, protection of the nation’s vital resources is imperative to the creation of an ambitious and effectively governed nation. To support this vision, Saudi Arabia has been prioritizing the development of sufficient food reserves, promotion of aquaculture and partnering with countries that have abundant natural resources. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization has also partnered with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the Saudi Grain Authority and the Agricultural Development Fund to augment national capacities for guaranteeing sustainable food security. On the sidelines of the exhibition, specialized sessions were held in which a number of government leaders and CEOs from the relevant sectors participated.