Economy Minister Delivers Saudi Arabia’s Address at UN High-Level Meeting Marking WPAY 30th Anniversary

Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Alibrahim delivered the Kingdom’s address at the United Nations high-level meeting marking the 30th anniversary of the World Program of Action for Youth (WPAY), held during the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York.

 Alibrahim said: “In a world where many struggle to embrace the long-term horizon, the youth factor is key. They own the future more than we ever will. The lesson from our experience is clear: involve, invest, and count on the youth today.”

 He added: “But this is not only about population. It is also about who leads. The model for our approach is set by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, whose visionary work personifies the energy and ambition of our youth. With the launch and progress of Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom has witnessed the best version of long-term planning and long-term delivery so far.”

 Alibrahim said that nearly half the world’s population is under 30, and global youth unemployment is nearly three times the adult rate, with many remaining outside education, training, or work. “Our collective actions will determine whether demographics become a dividend or a burden for the entire global system,” he added.