Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that solidifies their collaboration in the field of air transportation.
Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Dauilej, president of GACA, and Song Zhiyong, CAAC’s administrator, recently signed the agreement during a Saudi delegation’s visit to China.
Innovation in aviation
The MoU aims to expand the number of air transportation stops and promote air traffic. Moreover, it outlines developing and regulating frameworks for cooperation in transportation and air freight between Saudi Arabia and China.
As part of the ongoing cooperation between the two countries, Saudi Arabia’s high-level delegation convened a joint round table meeting in Beijing. The meeting explored partnership opportunities in connectivity and various other areas. Discussions centered on enhancing trade exchange and stimulating economic growth. Moreover, Saudi Arabia and China discussed fostering closer ties in the aviation sector.
Both Saudi Arabia and China expressed interest in exploring innovative solutions in aviation, including sustainable fuels, advanced air mobility, and traffic management systems. They emphasized the integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies to enhance the aviation experience and operational efficiency. Moreover, they showcased a commitment to embracing technological advancements in the industry.
Saudi Arabia’s strategic investments
In addition to its collaboration with China, Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in airline and airport infrastructure, including the establishment of Riyadh Air as a new national carrier. Moreover, it developed the master plan for King Salman International Airport in Riyadh. These strategic investments align with the National Aviation Strategy’s goal of enhancing air connectivity and doubling air cargo capacity by 2030.
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Future outlook
The meeting with China concluded with Saudi Arabia announcing the upcoming Saudi Airport Exhibition scheduled to take place in Riyadh later this year. This two-day event will assess the growth of the aviation sector and provide a platform for global leaders in the industry to exchange insights and explore potential collaborations. Al-Duailej urged Chinese firms to seize investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the country’s efforts to shape the future of global aviation.
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