RIYADH — The President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and Chair of Science 20 (S20) Dr. Anas Bin Faris Al-Faris said that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia"s hosting of the G20 Leaders" Summit is an important event economically, politically and socially. In a statement to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Dr. Al-Faris said that the S20, represented by national science academies of the G20 countries, aims to discuss the most pressing scientific issues that may have destabilizing and social economic or political impacts and require a rapid response from decision-makers. This is done through adopting policies and solutions to neutralize any negative impacts and maximize the positive ones. He also said that the group focused this year on highlighting and strengthening the role of science in overcoming critical transformations, especially now amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. He added that the group also focused on the importance of future insight and adopting long-term perspectives in three vital areas, including future health, circular economy and digital revolution. Dr. Al-Faris pointed out that the S20 has formed a steering committee composed of the most prominent Saudi research universities in addition to KACST. This committee contributed to primary discussions to define the theme of S20 this year and contributed to hosting a series of specialized seminars on the group"s vital topics. He concluded that the S20 formed 4 working groups with participation of 180 scientists from different G20 countries. Their discussions revolved around four vital areas, including future health, circular economy, digital revolution and future foresight. — SPA