Speaker of the Shura Council Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh will lead the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s delegation at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), scheduled to take place in Geneva. The delegation’s participation underscores Saudi Arabia’s active engagement in international parliamentary forums and its commitment to contributing to global dialogue on pressing issues, according to an official statement from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Context and Background
The 149th IPU Assembly represents a significant platform for parliamentarians from around the world to discuss critical challenges and opportunities. Saudi Arabia’s participation reaffirms its role as a key player in multilateral diplomacy. The Shura Council, as the Kingdom’s legislative advisory body, has consistently used such forums to advance dialogue on regional stability, international cooperation, and sustainable development, reflecting the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Key Details of the Delegation’s Agenda
In press remarks, Dr. Al-Sheikh emphasized that the Shura Council’s involvement demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s dedication to international collaboration, praising the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their vision in strengthening the Kingdom’s global influence. He highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing regional and global issues. This year’s assembly will focus on “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) for a More Peaceful and Sustainable Future,” with discussions led by the Union’s four permanent committees.
Alongside Dr. Al-Sheikh, Secretary General of the Shura Council Mohammed bin Dakhil Al-Mutairi will attend the meeting of National Parliaments’ Secretaries. Other Council members will participate in standing committees on UN Affairs, International Peace and Security, Democracy and Human Rights, and Sustainable Development. Dr. Al-Sheikh will also attend the 37th emergency conference of the Arab Parliamentary Union, alongside Shura Council member Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Muhanna.
International and Regional Implications
Saudi Arabia’s active role in the IPU Assembly and related meetings underscores its commitment to promoting peace, security, and sustainable development on the international stage. The focus on science, technology, and innovation aligns with the Kingdom’s own priorities in diversifying its economy and fostering knowledge-based growth. Regionally, the Arab Parliamentary Union conference provides a platform for coordinating positions on key issues affecting the Arab world, further positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading voice in the region.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The Shura Council’s delegation to the 149th IPU Assembly directly supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing the Kingdom’s international partnerships and promoting diplomacy and innovation. By engaging in global parliamentary networks, Saudi Arabia shares its development experiences and learns from best practices abroad, contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous future for its citizens and the world. This participation reflects the Kingdom’s vision of becoming a hub for dialogue, innovation, and sustainable progress.
20 Questions
Q1. Who is leading the Saudi delegation to the 149th IPU Assembly?
A1. Speaker of the Shura Council Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh is leading the Saudi delegation to the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Geneva.
Q2. What is the main focus of the 149th IPU Assembly?
A2. The assembly will focus on “Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) for a More Peaceful and Sustainable Future.”
Q3. When and where is the 149th IPU Assembly being held?
A3. The assembly is taking place in Geneva, as announced in October 2024.
Q4. Why is Saudi Arabia’s participation in the IPU Assembly important?
A4. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international cooperation, parliamentary diplomacy, and contributing to global solutions on peace, security, and sustainable development.
Q5. What role does the Shura Council play in Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy?
A5. The Shura Council supports Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy through parliamentary diplomacy, engaging in international forums to address regional and global issues.
Q6. Who praised the leadership of King Salman and the Crown Prince?
A6. The Speaker of the Shura Council, Dr. Al-Sheikh, praised the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in strengthening the Kingdom’s influence.
Q7. What are the four permanent committees of the IPU?
A7. The four permanent committees cover UN Affairs, International Peace and Security, Democracy and Human Rights, and Sustainable Development.
Q8. Who will attend the meeting of National Parliaments’ Secretaries?
A8. Secretary General of the Shura Council Mohammed bin Dakhil Al-Mutairi will attend the meeting.
Q9. What is the Arab Parliamentary Union emergency conference?
A9. It is the 37th emergency conference of the Arab Parliamentary Union, where key Arab parliamentary figures discuss pressing regional matters.
Q10. Which Shura Council member is attending the Arab Parliamentary Union conference?
A10. Shura Council member Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Muhanna will be present at the conference.
Q11. How does the IPU Assembly promote sustainable development?
A11. The assembly focuses on science, technology, and innovation as tools for achieving peace and sustainability, aligning with global development goals.
Q12. What is the significance of parliamentary diplomacy for Saudi Arabia?
A12. Parliamentary diplomacy allows Saudi Arabia to advance its vision and values internationally, building partnerships and sharing its development experience.
Q13. How does this event relate to Vision 2030?
A13. It supports Vision 2030 by enhancing international cooperation, promoting innovation, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in dialogue and development.
Q14. What is the role of the Saudi Shura Council in international forums?
A14. The Shura Council participates in forums to represent Saudi Arabia, discuss regional and global issues, and support the Kingdom’s diplomatic efforts.
Q15. Who is the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques?
A15. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques is King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the King of Saudi Arabia.
Q16. What is the title of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman?
A16. He is the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Q17. How many parliamentarians typically attend the IPU Assembly?
A17. The assembly brings together hundreds of parliamentarians and representatives from various international organizations.
Q18. What is the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)?
A18. The IPU is an international organization of parliaments that facilitates parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation on global issues.
Q19. Why is innovation a key topic at the IPU Assembly?
A19. Innovation is essential for addressing global challenges like climate change and conflict, and for promoting sustainable development.
Q20. What message does Saudi Arabia’s delegation bring to Geneva?
A20. Saudi Arabia’s delegation demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to peace, innovation, and international partnership under Vision 2030 leadership.
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