BEIJING, Monday, May 12, 2025 (WNP): Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Alfadley held high-level meetings in Beijing on Monday with top Chinese officials to advance bilateral cooperation in agriculture, water management, and food trade, as part of his official visit to China from May 12 to 14.

Alfadley met separately with China’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Han Jun and Minister of Water Resources Li Guoying to discuss strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. The talks focused on joint efforts to support sustainable development goals, expand trade in key sectors, and promote the exchange of expertise and modern technologies.

During discussions with Minister Han Jun, Alfadley highlighted the importance of enhancing collaboration in agricultural innovation and food security. The two sides explored the application of advanced farming systems, including closed greenhouse technologies and intensive agriculture practices that meet international standards. The minister also underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to adopting smart agricultural solutions as part of its broader vision for environmental sustainability.

In his meeting with Minister Li Guoying, Alfadley addressed the pressing challenge of water scarcity and reviewed Saudi Arabia’s plans to launch major dam projects in partnership with Chinese firms. He expressed keen interest in leveraging China’s extensive experience in dam construction to bolster water resource management in the Kingdom.

A key outcome of the visit was the signing of two export protocols enabling Saudi dairy and aquaculture products to enter the Chinese market for the first time. The agreements were signed by Minister Alfadley and Sun Meijun, Head of the General Administration of Customs of China.

The new protocols represent a significant milestone in Saudi-Chinese trade relations and aim to streamline export procedures, enhance customs cooperation, and encourage Saudi businesses to expand operations in China. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to diversify its economy and boost non-oil exports.

Minister Alfadley lauded the “fruitful and constructive” cooperation between Riyadh and Beijing, noting that ties have steadily strengthened over the past seven years. He said the newly signed agreements reflect growing mutual trust and will pave the way for more Saudi firms to access the Chinese market.

He reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to implementing global best practices, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and empowering the private sector to take a leading role in export development.

Looking ahead, Alfadley expressed optimism about broadening the scope of cooperation with China across multiple sectors, deepening economic and food security partnerships, and advancing future trade agreements.