
Top Arab and European diplomats are slated to convene in the Saudi capital this weekend for a high-profile economic summit and discussions concerning the ongoing conflict in Gaza, according to diplomatic sources.
The two-day World Economic Forum special meeting, set to commence in Riyadh on Sunday, will feature appearances by foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey as part of its official agenda.
Specifically focusing on Gaza, a session scheduled for Monday will host key figures including newly appointed Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, and Sigrid Kaag, the United Nations aid coordinator for Gaza.
Among the European officials expected to participate in talks on the Gaza conflict during the summit is French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne.
Discussions with counterparts from Europe, the United States, and the region regarding Gaza and the broader regional situation are planned to take place in Riyadh, according to a diplomatic source.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is anticipated to arrive on Monday for meetings with officials, including Kaag and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates, as confirmed by spokesperson Sebastian Fischer during a press conference in Berlin on Friday.
Fischer highlighted the significance of addressing the various flashpoints of the crisis in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and progress towards a peaceful resolution.
Notably, he acknowledged the crucial role that Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, play in the region. Despite never having formally recognized Israel, Saudi Arabia was reportedly being considered by the United States as a potential participant in a landmark deal that would have included recognition of Israel and an enhanced security partnership between Riyadh and Washington.
However, hopes for such a deal were dashed following the unprecedented October 7 attack by Hamas on southern Israel.
The Hamas attack resulted in approximately 1,170 fatalities in Israel, according to an AFP tally based on official figures.
In response, Israel launched a retaliatory military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 34,356 people, predominantly women and children, according to the health ministry in Gaza, which is administered by Hamas.
Qatar, Saudi Arabia’s neighbour, has served as a mediator in talks aimed at securing a durable ceasefire and the release of numerous hostages seized during the October 7 attack.