Saudi Gazette report

NEW YORK — Saudi Arabia concluded its participation in the 2025 United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, which brought together nations to review global efforts and progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in the 2030 Agenda.

The forum ran from July 14 to 23 at the UN headquarters in New York.

The Saudi delegation was led by Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Al-Ibrahim and included representatives from nine government entities: the Ministries of Economy and Planning, Foreign Affairs, Health, Human Resources and Social Development, and Environment, Water and Agriculture; the Saudi Fund for Development; Madinah Development Authority; the National Center for Wildlife; and the Quality of Life Program.

In his remarks, Minister Al-Ibrahim highlighted Saudi Arabia’s rapid progress on sustainable development indicators within the G20 over the past decade, attributing it to Vision 2030, which he described as a national project born from the aspirations of the leadership and the Saudi people.

"Vision 2030 has enabled the Kingdom to become the fastest-progressing G20 country in SDG indicators over the last 10 years," Al-Ibrahim said.

"This progress reflects the power of aligning ambition with structured action, strong political will, and effective policies."

He also pointed to innovative local initiatives, such as the launch of the Sustainable Development Atlas by Madinah City, which covers all 70 of its neighborhoods and supports evidence-based policy design through comprehensive data mapping and scenario modeling.

Saudi Arabia’s water sustainability efforts were spotlighted as the Kingdom was recognized by the UN Water Committee for its clear progress on SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), particularly in integrated water resources management.

The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture presented key lessons learned in securing water sustainability in one of the world’s most arid regions during a dedicated side event.

Additionally, the Ministry of Economy and Planning, in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the Quality of Life Program, and the Madinah Development Authority, organized a side event focusing on cross-sectoral integration, institutional capabilities, and innovation to accelerate progress toward the SDGs.

The Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) also participated with an informational pavilion showcasing its contributions to global sustainable development through the financing of projects in health, education, energy, infrastructure, industry, and mining.

On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Al-Ibrahim held a series of bilateral meetings with senior officials to explore opportunities for strategic partnerships, economic cooperation, and investment.

The High-Level Political Forum is held annually under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council and serves as a key platform for tracking SDG progress since its inception in 2012.