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Arab News
28-04-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi-Italian Business Forum showcases robust trade relations
MILAN: The Saudi-Italian Business Forum, which was held on Monday in Lombardy, showcased the robust economic relationship between Italy and Saudi Arabia. Spearheaded by prominent figures such as Veronica Squinzi, vice president for internationalization at Assolombarda, and Waleed Al-Orainan, secretary-general of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, the forum aimed to enhance collaboration and explore new business opportunities between the two nations. Squinzi welcomed the forum and spoke of the significance of the gathering in strengthening economic ties, underscoring the importance of governmental support in fostering international business. She said: 'This forum represents a vital step in enhancing our economic collaboration and building lasting partnerships.' Al-Orainan stressed the historic relationship between the two nations, dating back to the 1930s. He said: 'The warm reception we receive in Italy reflects the mutual respect and eagerness to enhance our bilateral cooperation.' Kamel Al-Munajjed, chairman of the Saudi-Italian Business Council, expressed optimism regarding future collaboration. He said: 'We are at a pivotal moment where collaboration can unlock significant value chains, invigorating our economies.' He acknowledged previous visits of Italian officials to Saudi Arabia which had helped to lay a solid foundation for partnerships. Discussions at the forum revealed a landscape rich with business potential. Maria Tripodi, undersecretary of state for foreign affairs, noted that Saudi Arabia had emerged as a priority partner for Italy, with exports exceeding €6 billion in 2024 — an increase of 27.9 percent from the previous year. Tripodi said: 'Our relationship with Saudi Arabia is not only growing, it is thriving, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.' This growth positions Saudi Arabia as the second-largest market for Italian exports in the region, reflecting a burgeoning relationship across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and high-tech innovation. The forum also highlighted opportunities in Saudi Arabia and success stories of Italian companies in sectors such as infrastructure and construction, renewable energy, and sport. Barbara Cimmino, vice president for export and foreign investment at Confindustria, said: 'When we align our strengths, we create a synergy that benefits both nations.' Discussions at the event turned to the Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the Saudi economy and reduce its dependence on oil. Tripodi said: 'This strategic plan presents numerous opportunities for Italian enterprises, particularly in technology, education, and public services.'
Zawya
17-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
‘Italy proud to be Qatar's largest trading partner in Europe, third globally'
Doha, Qatar: Qatar and Italy enjoy close relations and collaborations in trade, culture, tourism and other areas, said a top Italian official visiting Qatar. Italian Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation H E Maria Tripodi said Italy is Qatar's largest trading partner in Europe and third largest globally. 'In my meeting this morning with the Minister of State for Foreign Trade Affairs H E Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Sayed, we emphasised the special relationship that binds Qatar with Italy, the first European and third global trade partner to Doha. This is an achievement of which our country is proud, for the contribution we have made within the ambitious 'Vision 2030' of Qatar,' the Undersecretary of State said. She was speaking at an event to mark Italian Design Day yesterday. Tripodi said the occasion served as a celebration of Italian design, as well as of the success of commercial relations between Italy and Qatar. Through the annual Italian Design Day, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy celebrates the creativity, functionality, and good taste of Italian products worldwide, She added. 'Even more satisfying is the ability we have shown as a nation to work together here in Qatar, with the contribution of everyone: businesses, individuals, and institutions. I want all of you to know that we are at your service to make Italy grow together, both at the Farnesina in Rome and here in Doha, at our Embassy and the Italian Trade Office,' Tripodi added. Some design projects by the students of Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) were displayed on the occasion. The undersecretary of state said art and design was an important connection between the two countries. 'Our cultures are becoming increasingly interconnected, and our young people can more and more appreciate the opportunities of connections between Italy and Qatar as a chance for growth, understanding, and for building lasting relationships for the future.' Addressing the event, Ambassador of Italy to Qatar H E Paolo Toschi highlighted Qatar-Italy ties especially in areas of art, design and culture. 'Design is an important part of our relations. It connects minds, it connects technology, business, people. And it connects Italy and Qatar.' The Ambassador also emphasised Qatar-Italy collaboration for peace and stability in the region and beyond. 'This is a year of special energy. We have ahead of us time of uncertainty and unsolved issues regionally and globally. 'Definitely there are a lot of questions. We in Italy and Qatar are convinced that to address these questions, these issues, we need dialogue, we need a conversation, and we need to work together in spirit of cooperation and friendship, and our friendship with Qatar is an example of how we can do this. Together we are strong,' Ambassador Toschi concluded. Addressing the gathering, VCUarts Qatar's Dean Amir Berbić said it was a pivotal time in Qatar-Italy cultural partnership with recent announcement of Qatar to have a permanent pavilion at Venice Biennale. 'We value very much the connection that is developed between VCUarts Qatar campus and the Italian creative community both here in Qatar and abroad. We are so fortunate to have some of Italy's most talented and creative people teaching our students at VCUarts Qatar. They are truly making an amazing impact on the school by being at the top of their fields as designers, artists, and scholars and immersing our students in incredible educational experiences.' © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
