RIYADH: The Saudi capital has emerged as a beacon of “thought leadership, action, and solutions,” stated one of Saudi Arabia’s top officials as Riyadh prepares to host the World Economic Forum. Faisal Al-Ibrahim, the minister of economy and planning, made the comments ahead of the summit on global collaboration, growth, and energy for development, slated for April 28 to 29, which aims to empower leaders from both public and private sectors to tackle mutual global challenges. According to the WEF website, the meeting will also advance key forum initiatives in the region and beyond as it aims to bridge the growing North-South global divide, which has further widened on issues such as emerging economic policies, the energy transition and geopolitical shocks. “The crown prince’s patronage of the World Economic Forum Special Meeting in Riyadh is a testament to our leadership’s determination to convene the world to take action and expand global collaboration on the critical topics of our time,” said Al-Ibrahim in a post on X. He welcomed global leaders to this pivotal moment for social, economic, and human development, urging them to “build bridges toward a secure, stable and sustainable future.” Heads of state and senior executives from the public and private sectors are expected to be among the participants, who will discuss a range of global economic issues and developments under the theme “Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development.” Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan said that the Kingdom’s hosting of the World Economic Forum special meeting in Riyadh exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s dedication to addressing global challenges through international cooperation and pragmatic multilateralism. “This event underscores the Kingdom’s ongoing, focused efforts to promote security, stability, and sustainable development globally, benefiting people and communities worldwide,” Al-Jadaan said on his X account. The aim of the meeting is to find solutions to a host of global challenges relating to humanitarian issues, the climate and the economy. On the sidelines of the main event, the Kingdom will host exhibitions and other events to highlight the latest developments and trends in areas such as sustainability, innovation and culture. The selection of Riyadh as host of the special meeting reflects the extensive partnership between Saudi Arabia and the WEF, officials said. It builds upon the Kingdom’s active participation and contributions to the WEF’s Annual Meetings in Davos. The agenda is designed to rekindle the spirit of cooperation and collaboration with various panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. It represents a significant gathering of global leaders and experts dedicated to forging a path toward a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable world.