The Saudi Program for the Development and Reconstruction of Yemen (SPDRY) has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the General Authority for Foreign Trade (GAFT) at the program’s headquarters in Riyadh. The agreement aims to enhance coordination and integration between the two entities, broaden the scope of collaboration, and support shared objectives that contribute to development efforts in Yemen.

The GAFT was represented during the signing by the appointed governor, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Abduljabar, while the SPDRY was represented by the assistant general supervisor, Engineer Hassan Al-Attas.

The memorandum of cooperation aims to establish joint initiatives to stimulate private sector engagement, in coordination with relevant Yemeni authorities, and to organize conferences, seminars, and meetings in support of the private sector. These efforts are intended to contribute to economic recovery and support development and reconstruction efforts in Yemen.

Since its establishment in 2018, the SPDRY has provided support to various essential and vital sectors through an integrated strategic approach that links infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, and private sector empowerment as key partner in development. This has been achieved through the implementation of projects contracted to Yemeni contractors. Consultants, and suppliers, contributing to the creation of direct employment opportunities in the construction sector and stimulating economic activity through the activation of supply and procurement.

SPDRY works in partnership with United Nation agencies, international, regional and local organizations, civil society organizations, and the private sector to promote sustainable development in Yemen.

It is worth noting that GAFT aims to enhance and maximize the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s international trade gains and defend its interests in foreign trade, thereby contributing to the growth of the national economy.