Saudi Vice Foreign Minister Meets UN Alliance of Civilizations Chief

Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji received United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) High Representative Miguel Ángel Moratinos in Riyadh on February 11, 2025, for talks on strengthening collaboration. The meeting, reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), focused on enhancing ties between the Kingdom and the UNAOC across areas of mutual interest, including interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and conflict prevention.

Context and Background

The UNAOC, established in 2005 under UN auspices, works to promote global understanding and reduce polarization between societies. Saudi Arabia has been a key supporter of the Alliance, contributing to its programs and hosting events that align with the Kingdom’s commitment to moderation and tolerance. This meeting comes as Saudi Arabia deepens its engagement with multilateral institutions, leveraging its diplomatic weight to advance peace and coexistence.

Key Details

During the Riyadh meeting, Eng. El-Khereiji and Moratinos reviewed existing cooperation and explored new avenues for joint action. Discussions covered educational initiatives, media literacy campaigns, and youth empowerment projects that bridge cultural divides. Moratinos, a former Spanish Foreign Minister, has led the UNAOC since 2019 and prioritizes partnerships with influential nations like Saudi Arabia to amplify the Alliance’s reach.

International Impact

Saudi Arabia’s active role in the UNAOC underscores its broader foreign policy shift under Vision 2030, which emphasizes openness, dialogue, and global citizenship. The meeting signals the Kingdom’s readiness to host high-level UN events and supports its bid for greater influence in international diplomacy. Analysts note that such engagements enhance Saudi soft power and reinforce its image as a hub for intercultural understanding in the Middle East.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This collaboration directly supports Vision 2030’s goal of fostering a vibrant society rooted in Islamic values of moderation and global engagement. By partnering with the UNAOC, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to bridging civilizational gaps and building a peaceful, prosperous future. As the Kingdom continues to open up to the world, such diplomatic interactions are expected to multiply, reinforcing its role as a leader in regional and global affairs.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the main purpose of the meeting between Eng. El-Khereiji and Moratinos?

A1. The meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations in areas of mutual interest, including interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.

Q2. Who is Miguel Ángel Moratinos?

A2. He is the High Representative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), a former Spanish Foreign Minister, and a veteran diplomat focused on promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Q3. Where did the meeting take place?

A3. The meeting was held in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on February 11, 2025.

Q4. Which Saudi official participated in the meeting?

A4. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed bin Abdulkarim El-Khereiji represented Saudi Arabia.

Q5. What is the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations?

A5. It is a UN initiative launched in 2005 to promote intercultural dialogue, reduce polarization, and build mutual respect among diverse communities worldwide.

Q6. How does Saudi Arabia support the UNAOC?

A6. Saudi Arabia contributes financially and logistically to UNAOC programs, hosts events, and actively participates in its initiatives to foster global harmony.

Q7. What topics were discussed during the meeting?

A7. Both sides discussed educational programs, media literacy, youth empowerment, and joint efforts to combat extremism and promote tolerance.

Q8. Why is this meeting significant for Saudi foreign policy?

A8. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateral diplomacy and its role as a bridge builder in international relations, aligning with Vision 2030.

Q9. What is Vision 2030?

A9. Vision 2030 is Saudi Arabia’s ambitious reform plan to diversify its economy, modernize society, and enhance its global standing.

Q10. How does the UNAOC align with Saudi values?

A10. The UNAOC’s goals of moderation, dialogue, and coexistence resonate with Saudi Arabia’s Islamic principles of peace and mutual respect.

Q11. Did the meeting result in any agreements?

A11. The SPA report did not mention specific agreements, but both sides expressed intent to enhance cooperation and explore new joint initiatives.

Q12. What is the role of the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs in Saudi Arabia?

A12. The Vice Minister supports the Minister of Foreign Affairs in formulating and implementing Saudi foreign policy and represents the Kingdom in diplomatic engagements.

Q13. Has Saudi Arabia hosted UNAOC events before?

A13. Yes, Saudi Arabia has hosted conferences and forums under UNAOC auspices, including events promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue.

Q14. How does this meeting impact Saudi-U.S. relations?

A14. The meeting is not directly related to U.S. relations but reinforces Saudi Arabia’s broader multilateral engagement, which can positively influence perceptions.

Q15. What is the Saudi Press Agency?

A15. SPA is the official news agency of Saudi Arabia, providing authoritative news on government activities and national developments.

Q16. How many people work for the UNAOC?

A16. The UNAOC is a small UN office with a secretariat in New York, staffed by around 30 professionals, supported by member states and partners.

Q17. What are the main challenges facing the UNAOC?

A17. The UNAOC faces challenges such as limited funding, rising polarization globally, and the need to translate dialogue into concrete actions.

Q18. Can the public attend UNAOC events in Saudi Arabia?

A18. UNAOC events in Saudi Arabia are typically by invitation, but some conferences are open to registered participants from civil society and academia.

Q19. What is the next step after this meeting?

A19. Likely next steps include follow-up meetings between technical teams to develop specific programs and a potential joint action plan.

Q20. How can readers learn more about UNAOC activities?

A20. Readers can visit the official UNAOC website at unaoc.org or follow their social media channels for updates on programs and events.

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