Global leaders commend KSA's progress, leadership
In his opening address at the Future Investment Initiative, recently held in Miami, US President Donald Trump praised the Saudi leadership, highlighting its strong management and economic influence.
Trump underscored the need for strategic investments that generate both financial returns and long-term social impact.
He said: 'Today, it is a tremendous honor to be the first American president to address the Future Investment Initiative Institute.
'I come today with a simple message for business leaders from across the nation and around the world: If you want to build the future, push boundaries, unleash breakthroughs, transform industries and make a fortune.'
Trump thanked Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for hosting talks in Riyadh aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war.
He further shared his impression of the Saudi leadership, emphasizing its vision and outlining the core values that great leaders should embody — peace, love, respect and strength.
The president praised Saudi Arabia and its leader, saying: 'The Kingdom is a special place with special leaders.'
He also commended Princess Reema bint Bandar, the Kingdom's ambassador to the US, saying: 'She is very popular.'
Saudi Arabia and its leadership have rightfully earned global recognition for their remarkable achievements, setting new international benchmarks through their exceptional economic, social and political strength.
Trump highlighted the Public Investment Fund, calling it a 'big fund,' and also praised the chairman and governor of the Future Investment Initiative Institute, as well as Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan.
The Future Investment Initiative is a global nonprofit foundation with an investment arm and a singular agenda focused on making a positive impact on humanity.
It is worth noting that the third FII PRIORITY Miami, held under the theme 'Invest with Purpose,' was designated as a catalyst for creating visionary business models, bold public policies and actionable frameworks designed to unlock extraordinary economic value.
The summit has driven remarkable value creation by aligning the strategic goals of the public and private sectors, accelerating economic growth and prosperity.
Meanwhile, at the Saudi Media Forum, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson commended Saudi Arabia's rapid transformation under Vision 2030.
He highlighted the Kingdom's economic diversification, infrastructure development and social reforms, noting that 50 percent of the Saudi economy is now non-oil-based, with significant growth in the tourism, technology and renewable energy sectors.
Johnson also praised the Kingdom's advancements in women's empowerment, highlighting that women now make up 35 percent of the workforce, including in the technology sector — a figure surpassing that of Silicon Valley and Europe.
Reflecting on leadership, Johnson lauded Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a 'leader with courage,' emphasizing the Kingdom's decisive and bold leadership.
Saudi Arabia and its leadership have rightfully earned global recognition for their remarkable achievements, setting new international benchmarks through their exceptional economic, social and political strength.
• Talat Zaki Hafiz is an economist and financial analyst. X: @TalatHafiz
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