Saudi foreign minister meets UN humanitarian chief in Davos
Riyadh – Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks with United Nations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s continued engagement in global humanitarian and diplomatic efforts.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the Kingdom and the United Nations in addressing humanitarian crises, improving emergency response mechanisms, and supporting vulnerable populations affected by conflict, climate challenges, and economic instability.
The discussions highlighted the importance of coordinated international action in managing humanitarian emergencies, with Saudi Arabia emphasizing its role as a major donor and partner in relief operations worldwide.
Prince Faisal underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and its long-standing support for UN-led humanitarian initiatives aimed at alleviating suffering and promoting stability in crisis-affected regions.
Both sides reviewed existing areas of collaboration and explored ways to enhance joint efforts, particularly in regions experiencing prolonged humanitarian needs.
The talks also addressed the importance of timely funding, efficient aid delivery, and improved coordination between governments, international organizations, and non-governmental partners to ensure assistance reaches those most in need without delay.
The meeting came at a time when global humanitarian demands are increasing due to conflicts, displacement, food insecurity, and natural disasters.
Saudi Arabia has positioned itself as a key actor in international humanitarian assistance, providing financial aid, logistical support, and diplomatic backing for relief operations across the Middle East, Africa, and other regions facing emergencies.
Prince Faisal and Tom Fletcher discussed the evolving nature of humanitarian challenges and the need for innovative approaches to address them.
Emphasis was placed on integrating development and humanitarian responses, strengthening local capacities, and ensuring that aid efforts contribute to long-term resilience rather than short-term relief alone.
The talks also reflected broader diplomatic engagement at the World Economic Forum, where global leaders, policymakers, and international organizations convene to discuss pressing economic, political, and humanitarian issues.
Saudi Arabia’s participation at the forum aligns with its wider foreign policy goals of promoting dialogue, stability, and international cooperation on global challenges.
Humanitarian coordination was a central theme of the meeting, with both parties recognizing the importance of neutrality, transparency, and accountability in aid delivery.
The discussions acknowledged the role of humanitarian diplomacy in facilitating access to affected populations and ensuring that assistance is provided in accordance with international humanitarian principles.
Saudi Arabia’s growing involvement in humanitarian affairs has been supported by institutional frameworks and partnerships that enable rapid response to emergencies.
Through collaboration with the United Nations and other international bodies, the Kingdom aims to enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian action while contributing to global efforts to reduce suffering and promote peace.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding of the need to deepen cooperation and maintain regular dialogue on humanitarian priorities.
Both sides expressed their intention to continue working closely on initiatives that address immediate humanitarian needs while supporting sustainable development and long-term recovery in affected regions.
