KSA ‘vital’ for Arab and Muslim growth

Saudi Arabia is playing a central role in the development of the Arab and Muslim world, and the fight against terrorism, Denmark’s ambassador said recently.
In an interview at the Royal Danish Embassy in Riyadh, Ole Frijs-Madsen said that Denmark was assisting Saudi Arabia in the war against global terror. He slammed the groups and individuals carrying out attacks. “Tolerance, respect and dialogue are key to building societies and maintaining peace.”
Frijs-Madsen said Denmark has enhanced cooperation with the Kingdom in various fields. Saudi Arabia was developing its society, building major infrastructure projects, increasing the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency in buildings and cars, he said.
The Kingdom has placed a high priority on cleaner water, electricity production, marine technologies, health provision and quality food for citizens. “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman has made this a key priority for his country.” He said Danish companies have world-class products and innovative expertise, which are being introduced to Saudi partners.
Frijs-Madsen said Denmark wants to expand cooperation in education with the Kingdom. The University of Southern Denmark is currently assisting Princess Nora University (PNU) in public health education at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
“Princess Marie of Denmark visited PNU in November last year and had meetings with high-level officials from the Saudi Ministry of Education.” Two Danish universities would attend the international exhibition and conference for higher education in Riyadh from April 15 to 18 to build more partnerships, he said.
“As a hub of innovation and human development, Denmark is also developing partnerships with technical schools to deliver top-level vocational training from Danish knowledge centers as part of the Saudization process,” he said.
On aid projects, the envoy said Denmark and Saudi Arabia are both important donors for people and countries in distress. At the Kuwait III Humanitarian Pledging Conference recently, Denmark announced a fresh contribution of $33 million on top of its previous contributions, he said.