In regards to neighboring countries , Saudi Arabia is working to find a comprehensive and just solution to solve the conflict between the Palestinians and Israelis . We also object the Iranian interference in the internal affairs of countries in the region and we are working with our allies to find a peaceful solution to the crises in Yemen and Syria .
Katia : With Cuba opening up to American commerce , what Saudi related opportunities are likely to develop ?
Mr . Al-Angari : In late 2014 the two countries ratified their intentions to expand bilateral commercial relations through an accord to rehabilitate water supply networks in the Eastern province of Camaguey . The accord between Cuba ’ s Foreign Trade and Investment Ministry and the Saudi Development Fund includes granting the island $ 40 million to support the rehabilitation of the water supply infrastructure . Saudi Arabia will respond to the priorities of Cuba and keep strengthening bilateral relations . I believe that the opening of the Cuban market to the world , and not only to American commerce , will give Saudi businesses many opportunities to jointly invest with the Cubans in tourism , trade , agriculture , and the industrial sector and to develop relations between the private sectors of both nations .
Katia : How is the Saudi business community uniquely positioning itself to help Americans who are interested in doing business in Saudi Arabia ?
Mr . Al-Angari : Our economic relationship with the United States goes back to the 1930s when a group of American businessmen came to invest and develop the Kingdom ’ s natural resources . Americans are no strangers to doing business with the Saudi business community . The U . S . -Saudi Arabian Business Council ( USS- ABC ) was established in 1993 as an organization of business leaders in both countries working together to strengthen bilateral business relations through trade and investment by promoting broader understanding among U . S . and Saudi companies . The organization provides consultation , business development , and market research to foster , develop , and expand business relationships
between the U . S . and Saudi Arabia . Our relationship with the U . S . on issues of economic opportunities is stronger than ever , and for the past four decades we remain one of America ’ s closest economic partners . Saudi Arabia is the 9th largest trading partner of the U . S . and our bilateral trade now reaches $ 70 billion .
Katia : Is there anything we have not talked about that you would like to discuss ?
Mr . Al-Angari : I would like to stress that our relationship with the U . S . is strategic , and that we share common interests as we work together to bring about a prosperous , peaceful world .
Also , I would like to thank the City of Houston for assisting us with the paperwork necessary for building our new consulate complex in the Westchase District . I believe it will be a beautiful facility and hope that Houstonians will enjoy its unique design .
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak to your readers . I wish you and the International Focus ( iF ) Magazine all the best .
RIVEROAKS
4807 Kirby Dr at Highway 59 • 713-524-3801 • riveroaksjeep . com
40 iF Magazine | July 2016