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Saudi Finance Minister Calls for Global Unity to Strengthen Economic Resilience and Sustainable Growth

Riyadh – Saudi Minister of Finance Mohammed Al-Jadaan has expressed optimism about the world’s ability to navigate current economic challenges, stressing that cooperation, transparency, and technological innovation will drive sustainable growth in the years ahead.

Speaking after attending the fourth G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Washington, held under South Africa’s presidency, Al-Jadaan underlined that while the global economy faces “structural shifts,” these transitions also present opportunities for adaptation and renewal.

Accompanied by Saudi Central Bank Governor Ayman Alsayari, Al-Jadaan noted that 2025 and 2026 will be critical years for global fiscal stability.

He explained that the ongoing adjustments in monetary policies, trade relations, and technology adoption are reshaping the world economy, calling for balanced and forward-looking approaches.

“We are entering an era of transformation,” he said, “and this demands not withdrawal from global systems, but greater collaboration to strengthen trust and investment.”

The finance minister urged nations to protect and enhance the multilateral trading system, describing it as the foundation of international prosperity.

He called for collective reforms that would make global trade more inclusive, transparent, and efficient. “The solution lies not in isolation but in cooperation,” Al-Jadaan emphasized, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s support for policies that ensure shared global progress.

Al-Jadaan highlighted fiscal discipline and sustainable public debt as “fundamental pillars” of economic resilience. He explained that governments worldwide must continue prioritizing transparency and sound governance to manage public resources effectively. “Fiscal discipline builds investor confidence,” he said, “and ensures that countries are better equipped to face external shocks.”

He also pointed out that enhanced spending efficiency is crucial to achieving long-term growth and protecting citizens from inflationary pressures. Saudi Arabia, he noted, has made significant strides in this regard through Vision 2030 reforms, which emphasize accountability, innovation, and private sector empowerment.

Addressing the rapid pace of digital transformation, Al-Jadaan said that artificial intelligence, fintech, and digital assets are reshaping global markets at an unprecedented speed. He called for proactive regulatory frameworks that strike a balance between innovation and security, ensuring that technology becomes a driver of opportunity rather than risk.

“The rise of AI and digital finance presents extraordinary potential for productivity and inclusion,” he explained. “However, it is our responsibility as policymakers to ensure these technologies are governed responsibly, promoting trust and stability.”

During discussions on Africa’s economic growth, the Saudi minister reaffirmed the continent’s growing importance to global prosperity. He called for practical and implementable solutions to reduce the cost of capital, attract private investment, and strengthen financial sustainability.

“Africa is a key partner in the future of global growth,” Al-Jadaan stated, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s deep and historic partnership with African nations. He noted that the Kingdom has financed vital projects in over 40 countries across sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and healthcare—initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive and lasting development.

He also called upon multilateral institutions to support structural reforms that enhance productivity and create the right conditions for private sector-led expansion. “True progress in Africa and beyond requires coordinated global support and long-term commitments,” he said.

In closing, Al-Jadaan emphasized that while the global economy is undergoing significant change, countries can turn challenges into opportunities through unity and innovation. “The years ahead will test our resilience, but also our capacity to cooperate and evolve,” he said. “Together, we can build an economy that is not only stable but also sustainable and inclusive.”

His message at the G20 meeting reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s role as a proactive global partner—championing responsible growth, fiscal prudence, and technological progress. As the world navigates a rapidly evolving economic landscape, the Kingdom continues to advocate for solutions rooted in collaboration, transparency, and shared prosperity.