Saudi Gazette report

CAIRO — Saudi Arabia has been unanimously re-elected to represent the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region on the Governing Board of the Global Research Council (GRC) for another three-year term during the council’s meeting in Cairo.

The Kingdom was represented by His Excellency Dr. Munir El-Desouki, President of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), who will continue serving as the region’s official representative.

The renewed mandate underscores Saudi Arabia’s leadership in advancing global research and innovation, reflecting the confidence placed in its scientific institutions by regional research communities.

It highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in science, supporting joint research initiatives, and shaping a sustainable future for innovation regionally and globally.

The recognition further enhances Saudi Arabia’s growing international presence in research, development, and innovation, aligning with the ambitions of Vision 2030 to establish a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, research excellence, and technology.

Saudi Arabia has represented the MENA region on the GRC since the council’s establishment in 2012, with Dr. El-Desouki also serving as Vice Chair of the Governing Board.

Earlier in 2025, the Kingdom hosted the council’s 13th annual meeting — the first ever held in the MENA region — marking a milestone for its expanding role in global research leadership.

Through its continued engagement with the GRC, the Kingdom reaffirms its commitment to fostering scientific collaboration, empowering research communities, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge for a more innovative and sustainable future.