Saudi Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Culture, Tourism, and Entertainment Committee of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council, Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, and Qatari Minister of Culture and Chairman of the committee, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani, co-chaired the committee’s first official meeting on Monday, held at the Riyadh International Book Fair.

Key Discussions and Outcomes:

The meeting marked a significant step in enhancing Saudi-Qatari relations in the fields of culture, tourism, and entertainment. The committee members discussed key achievements, ongoing objectives, and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering cooperation between the two nations. The discussions centered on how both Saudi Arabia and Qatar can leverage their cultural and entertainment sectors to promote growth, in alignment with their respective national development strategies, Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030.

During the meeting, the committee adopted several important recommendations, including plans to:

Strengthen Cultural Exchange Programs: Both countries are keen to expand opportunities for cultural exchange by supporting joint initiatives, festivals, and exhibitions that highlight the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Enhance Tourism Collaboration: The committee discussed ways to boost tourism between the two nations, focusing on developing new tourism packages, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and improving travel and hospitality services.

Expand Entertainment Industry Partnerships: The entertainment sector was a central focus, with both countries looking to attract investment in film, music, and live events, as well as promote collaboration between entertainment entities in both nations.

These initiatives aim to promote closer ties between the two countries, ensuring deeper integration and cooperation in key sectors. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue exploring new opportunities for collaboration, in line with the broader goals of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council.

Tour of Riyadh International Book Fair:

Following the meeting, Prince Badr and Sheikh Abdulrahman toured the Riyadh International Book Fair, where Qatar holds the prestigious position of guest of honor this year. The ministers engaged with various exhibitors and participants, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange between the two nations.

This year’s fair, which runs from September 28 to October 7, 2024, features more than 2,000 publishing houses from 30 countries, with a wide range of literary and cultural activities designed to bring together Saudi and international writers, publishers, and readers. The event serves as a platform to promote cultural dialogue and knowledge sharing, underscoring the significance of the written word in fostering mutual understanding.

Qatar’s participation as the guest of honor highlights the close cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as the two nations work together to promote regional collaboration in literature and the arts. The Qatari pavilion at the fair features a rich array of cultural and literary contributions, including exhibitions, panel discussions, and presentations from leading Qatari authors and intellectuals.

Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030:

The collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Qatar is part of a broader effort to achieve the long-term objectives outlined in Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030. Both frameworks emphasize the role of culture, tourism, and entertainment in driving economic diversification, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens. By working together in these sectors, Saudi Arabia and Qatar are poised to become cultural and tourism hubs, attracting visitors and fostering greater regional cooperation.

A Growing Bilateral Relationship:

Saudi Arabia and Qatar have made significant strides in strengthening their relationship in recent years. This meeting of the Culture, Tourism, and Entertainment Committee marks a key milestone in fostering deeper integration across shared areas of interest. Both Prince Badr and Sheikh Abdulrahman expressed optimism about the future of Saudi-Qatari cooperation, with a focus on mutual benefits and long-term growth.

The inaugural meeting concluded with a strong commitment to continuing dialogue and collaboration, with future meetings planned to track progress and implement the recommendations adopted by the committee.

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