Saudi Arabia's $2.5 Billion Green Initiative: Preserving the Environment, Combating Desertification, and Leading the Region
Minister Adel Al-Jubeir, Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Envoy for Climate Affairs, emphasized the country's commitment to the environment.
He highlighted Saudi Arabia's $2.5 billion grant to the Middle East Green Initiative and the importance of afforestation in the Kingdom's climate change and Vision 2030 policies.
Al-Jubeir made these remarks during the "National Afforestation Forum" in Riyadh, where experts from Saudi Arabia, the region, and internationally are discussing environmental issues.
The two-day forum is organized by the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification.
Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister, Al-Jubeir, announced the Saudi Green Initiative and Middle East Green Initiative led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The initiatives aim to make the region benefit from Saudi Arabia's expertise in the circular carbon economy, desertification confrontation, and land rehabilitation.
The Middle East Green Initiative, the largest of its kind in the world, has been joined by several regional countries, with more expressing interest.
Saudi Arabia, as the world's largest oil exporter, feels responsible for the climate and aims to be a leader in combating climate change by adhering to international standards and contributing to their development.
The Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister, Adel Al-Jubeir, emphasized the interconnectedness of global events and the importance of a clean environment to the international community.
He highlighted the significance of afforestation and land rehabilitation in addressing climate change and improving quality of life.
Al-Jubeir also warned that drought and resulting conflicts can pose security risks and conflict with Saudi Arabia's goals of regional stability and security.
Al-Jubeir explained that climate change has a significant impact on the economy.
Natural disasters and floods caused by climate change can increase commodity prices and disrupt supplies, shipping, and transportation.
This results in higher shipping costs and longer delivery times, ultimately affecting consumers.