Saudi Arabia has underlined the importance of strengthening and developing relations with the European Union in all fields. The Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to the EU Ambassador Saad Al-Arifi said long-term relations have been binding the Kingdom and Gulf states with Europe since 1967. Speaking at the Arabian Peninsula Relations Mission in the European Parliament in Brussels, he said Saudi Arabia, Gulf countries and the EU are in agreement on a number of issues based on mutual respect. "We have emphasized the deepening of these ties by establishing our mission to the EU, promoting our bilateral discussions, enhancing interpersonal contacts and building bridges between Saudi and European societies," he remarked. “Saudi Arabia is currently developing its Vision 2030, which is a blueprint for an ambitious nation and reflects the long-term goals that are based on the strengths and unique capabilities of the Kingdom," Al-Arifi added. He explained that Vision 2030 guides the Kingdom towards a new stage of development to establish a vibrant society where all citizens can realize their dreams, hopes and aspirations to produce a prosperous economy with major reforms. He stated that the Kingdom and EU have strong economic relations, noting the European bloc is the Saudi Arabia’s main trading partner. Total trade of goods between the Kingdom and in 2018 amounted to 61.03 billion euros, and the goal right now is to double this figure.