Tourism cooperation strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and Cuba

A Memorandum of Understanding for tourism cooperation was signed at the Future Investment Initiative Conference, held in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, by authorities from that nation and Cuba.

Manuel Marrero Cruz, member of the Political Bureau and Cuban prime minister, signed the agreement, which was also endorsed by Ahmed Bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb, minister of Tourism of the Arab nation. The document will allow for the exchange of information and experiences in marketing, promotional activities and joint programs, according to the Presidency’s website.

.“Cooperation with the Saudi Fund for Development has distinguished relations between our countries and has driven important projects with social impact. Therefore, it was a great pleasure to meet with the Chairman of its Board of Directors and Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb,” Marrero Cruz posted on his social media.This is the first time Cuba has participated in the Future Investment Initiative Conference, a platform that brings together 5,000 government, business and investment leaders from around the world.

As part of the visit, the Cuban prime minister has a highly strategic work agenda.

The event represents a great opportunity to strengthen integration into global knowledge and finance chains, as well as to attract investments that will help overcome the complex economic situation the country faces under the effects of a tightened blockade.

In a conversation with Yasir Al-Rumayan, governor of the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund and president of the Future Investment Initiative Institute, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, the Cuban prime minister expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome.

He also met with Majid bin Abdullah Alkassabi, the Saudi minister of Trade, and their meeting revealed a shared desire to expand cooperation in various sectors and develop economic and trade relations.

.”Cuba is a very dear country here,” he said. “It has a very rich history and culture,” said Talal Al Marris, CEO of the company in charge of the 2030 World Expo, upon receiving the Cuban prime minister.

Successful first dayDuring his first day of work, the prime minister also visited the headquarters of the Gulf Cooperation Council, where he was welcomed by its Secretary General, Jassem Mohamed Al Budaiwi.

The Cuban head of government acknowledged the leadership and strength of the countries that make up the Council and reviewed the historical relations with the territories that are part of this bloc, highlighting the special attention that Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz and Army General Raúl Castro Ruz have given to these nations since the triumph of the Revolution, according to the Cuban Presidency website.

Marrero Cruz, meanwhile, highlighted Cuba’s potential for collaboration in various areas, the exchange of experiences, business opportunities, and the incentives offered by the Caribbean nation to attract Saudi investment.

He also noted the severe limitations imposed by the US blockade on Cuba.In recent years there has been a noticeable increase in the interest of Saudi Arabian citizens in exploring tourist destinations in Latin America, driven by a combination of economic, social, and diplomatic factors that are redefining Saudi travel patterns and opening a new chapter in the relationship between the two regions.

Among the factors that have motivated this increased flexibility is Saudi Arabia’s Openness Policy and Vision 2030, which promotes economic diversification and cultural openness.

Furthermore, travel opportunities have begun to emerge due to visa waiver agreements and simplified procedures between Saudi Arabia and several Latin American countries (such as Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia), which have eliminated significant bureaucratic barriers, making the region more accessible.In addition, Latin American countries have intensified their marketing efforts in the Gulf, participating in tourism fairs and collaborating with influencers to promote their destinations.

Air connectivity, while still developing, has improved with more connecting flights from Europe and the establishment of new routes.

The conference’s program addressed a wide range of global economic issues, including the balance between energy security and climate goals, the impact of innovation on labor markets, geopolitical stability, and the role of cross-border investment in fostering economic resilience.