In a strategic move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to strengthening joint Arab action and supporting regional development efforts, His Excellency the Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing, Mr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-HogailAzerbaijan Baku, which is considered the world's leading platform for discussing issues of sustainable urban development.
General context and importance of the World Urban Forum
The World Urban Forum, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), represents a vital opportunity for countries to exchange views on the challenges of rapid urbanization. The Kingdom's participation in this forum in Baku highlights its unprecedented achievements in the housing and urban development sector, which serve as a model to be emulated regionally and internationally. In this context, the Saudi-Syrian meeting takes on added significance, as both sides seek to leverage this international platform to strengthen bilateral ties.
Review of the pioneering Saudi experience in housing
During the meeting, the two ministers reviewed Saudi Arabia's extensive experience in the housing sector, which has undergone radical transformations under the umbrella of Saudi Vision 2030.The discussion focused on the innovative policies and modern real estate legislation launched by the Kingdom, highlighting key initiatives that have directly contributed to improving the quality of life for citizens and supporting sustainable development. The Saudi experience, particularly regarding partnerships with the private sector and facilitating mortgage financing, is of great interest to countries seeking to develop their housing sectors and meet the needs of their citizens.
Signing of a memorandum of understanding to enhance regional partnerships
As a culmination of these fruitful discussions, the meeting witnessed the signing of a formal memorandum of understanding between the Saudi and Syrian sides. This memorandum aims to establish a practical framework for enhancing institutional cooperation and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise in the fields of municipalities and housing. During the signing, His Excellency Minister Majid Al-Hogail emphasized the Kingdom's ongoing commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and sharing successful experiences with sister nations, thereby supporting comprehensive development efforts and contributing to the stability and growth of the region.
Regional dimensions and the impact of joint cooperation
This cooperation carries significant regional dimensions, particularly given the current phase which necessitates concerted Arab efforts to address the challenges of urban development. For the Syrian Arab Republic, engaging with the Saudi experience represents a valuable opportunity to benefit from the latest practices in urban planning, reconstruction, and housing infrastructure development. At the international level, this coordination reflects the commitment of Arab states to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 11, which focuses on making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
Continued coordination towards a sustainable urban future
At the conclusion of the bilateral meeting in Baku, both sides reaffirmed the paramount importance of continuing joint coordination and activating all areas of cooperation stipulated in the Memorandum of Understanding. This commitment reflects the depth of the fraternal and historical relations between the two brotherly countries and lays the foundation for a new phase of joint work that supports housing and urban development goals in both countries, benefiting both peoples and fulfilling their aspirations for a more prosperous and sustainable future.
