RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and China stand to gain by sharing expertise in city planning, sustainable urban development, and construction technology as officials from both sides met in Beijing. Saudi Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Majid Al-Hogail and Chinese Minister of Housing and Urban-Rural Development Ni Hong held discussions to explore cooperation opportunities in developing housing policies and programs for residential communities. This move extends from the Chinese President’s visit to the Kingdom in December 2022 and the agreements signed between the two nations during that time. Following the meeting in Beijing, Al-Hogail stated in a post on X: “Our leaders have completed an agreement on the importance of strengthening the partnership and aligning Saudi Vision 2030 with the Belt and Road Initiative, which will reflect positively on the aspirations and economic standing of Saudi Arabia and China globally.” He added: “We are working to enhance fruitful cooperation between the two countries in various fields including developing urban areas and attracting the best Chinese construction companies to benefit from their expertise in enhancing housing units in various regions of the Kingdom, with the aim of achieving the goals of the housing program — one of the programs of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 — by providing various housing and financing options for citizens.” Furthermore, the two countries reviewed successful experiences in providing housing solutions and options, along with enhancing opportunities for citizens to own homes. They also discussed ways to facilitate the exchange of experiences in urban management and the application of best practices in this regard. The meeting was part of an official visit by Al-Hogail to the Chinese capital. During his visit, he is scheduled to meet with senior officials in the Chinese government, heads of construction companies, and banks to strengthen the partnership in the construction sector. The trip also aims to attract top international companies in real estate development.