JEDDAH. The United Diplomatic Council (UDC) successfully hosted the Trade Conference on Economic Diplomacy and Internationalization in Jeddah, gathering ministers, ambassadors, trade commissioners, and business leaders from across the globe to explore new pathways for investment, innovation, and global cooperation in alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The conference underscored the Kingdom’s evolving role as a hub for economic diplomacy, global trade, and talent development, reinforcing its emergence as a dynamic bridge linking Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Opening the high-level dialogue, Dr. Asif Iqbal, President of the Indian Economic Trade Organization and Chairman of the Asian Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC), emphasized that economic diplomacy has become the cornerstone of modern international relations. He highlighted the growing synergy between UDC and AACC in transforming dialogue into development and partnerships into tangible progress.
H.E. Mr. Raed Habiss, Vice Chairman of Baseera Group and Vice Chairman of AACC, commended Saudi Arabia’s visionary leadership under Vision 2030, noting that the Kingdom has successfully diversified its economy while fostering a globally connected ecosystem for trade and innovation.
“Jeddah’s position as a cultural and commercial crossroads makes it a natural platform for international cooperation and business expansion,” he remarked.
The New Epicenter for Global Talent and Investment
A major focus of the conference was Saudi Arabia’s growing attractiveness for skilled professionals and global investors. Speakers highlighted government initiatives such as the Talent Attraction Program and Premium Residency, which aim to welcome innovators, entrepreneurs, and experts from around the world.
Mr. Shakkir Hussain, Founder and Chairman of Arabian Horizon Company, described Saudi Arabia as “one of the most promising destinations for global business expansion.” He pointed out that progressive reforms, digital-ready infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies have positioned the Kingdom as a strategic gateway to global markets.
“Through Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is not merely transforming its economy — it is reshaping its identity,” said Mr. Hussain. “Our vision is clear — a future built on people before buildings.”
Mr. Lu Ye, Commercial Counsellor at the Embassy of China, commended UDC for fostering meaningful engagement among nations, describing the conference as “an essential step toward building lasting economic relationships.”
Delegations from Bahrain, Sudan, Kazakhstan, Togo, India, and Germany echoed their shared commitment to expanding trade frameworks and encouraging investment cooperation. The collective discussions reinforced the message that economic diplomacy today is a global instrument for inclusive growth — uniting governments, industries, and investors to achieve shared prosperity.
The UDC and AACC reaffirmed their partnership to promote international dialogue, innovation in trade, and sustainable economic development. As Saudi Arabia advances toward hosting Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, the Kingdom continues to open its doors — and its heart — to global collaboration.
The United Diplomatic Council (UDC) is a global organization dedicated to promoting international cooperation through economic diplomacy, trade facilitation, and cultural understanding. Working alongside the Asian Arab Chamber of Commerce (AACC), UDC connects governments, embassies, and industries to drive sustainable partnerships and inclusive global growth.