Leaders review ties, trade, and future cooperation
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Thursday in Riyadh for official talks aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.
The meeting took place at Al-Yamamah Palace, following official reception ceremonies held in honor of the German leader, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Senior officials from both governments attended the talks.
Focus on Relations and Cooperation
During the meeting, the two leaders:
- Reviewed Saudi-German relations
- Discussed areas of current cooperation
- Explored ways to expand partnerships
The talks covered economic, political, and strategic issues. Officials focused on opportunities that could deepen cooperation between the two countries.
Saudi Arabia and Germany already work closely in several fields, including:
- Trade and investment
- Security cooperation
- Education and cultural exchange
Germany Sees Saudi Arabia as Key Economic Partner
Chancellor Merz praised Saudi Arabia’s ongoing transformation and its growing role in the global economy.
In a post on X, Merz highlighted the Kingdom’s modernization efforts and their impact on German business interests.
He pointed to Saudi Arabia’s:
- Economic reforms
- Social and cultural changes
- Expanding investment footprint
Merz also noted that Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund has made significant investments in Germany.
Germany, he said, aims to build on that momentum to support economic growth at home.
Strong Trade and Investment Ties
Saudi Arabia and Germany maintain a long-standing partnership that spans multiple sectors.
Key areas of cooperation include:
- Industry and manufacturing
- Energy and sustainability
- Education and workforce development
- Security and regional stability
As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy under Vision 2030, German companies see new opportunities in infrastructure, technology, and industrial development.
At the same time, Saudi investment plays a growing role in supporting German markets.
The meeting signals a shared push to expand Saudi-German cooperation, especially in trade and investment, as both countries look to strengthen economic ties and long-term partnerships.