Abu Dhabi Development Authority Participates in Arab Coordination Group Operations Heads Meeting in Riyadh

The Arab Coordination Group held its regular technical meeting for operations chiefs in Riyadh from December 8-9, bringing together major development institutions to discuss joint initiatives and development projects. The meeting marks another step in coordinating Arab development funding across the region and beyond.

The Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND) hosted the gathering, which included high-level representatives and experts from all Arab Coordination Group institutions, including the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. Participants reviewed progress on ongoing programs and identified new opportunities to strengthen cooperation.

The discussions centered on improving joint financing mechanisms and encouraging innovation in development cooperation. Climate resilience and social programs aligned with sustainable development goals took center stage, reflecting the growing focus on environmental challenges across the region.

The group also reviewed results from previous meetings, including virtual sessions held on November 27 with the Green Climate Fund and the Regional Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency. These partnerships aim to expand collaboration with potential partners for achieving shared development objectives.

Several key topics came up during the meeting, including the Abdul Latif Al Hamad Award for Arab Development and the Prince Talal International Prize for Human Development. The group also discussed its strategic advisory report on future directions and reviewed the 50th anniversary celebration held in Washington last October.

That anniversary event highlighted five decades of productive cooperation and significant contributions to development financing at both Arab and international levels. The milestone reflects the group's evolution from a regional coordination body into a major player in global development finance.

Representatives emphasized the importance of solidarity, knowledge sharing, and strategic coordination to address emerging global challenges. This approach helps strengthen the group's collective impact in an increasingly complex international environment.

The Arab Coordination Group has operated as a strategic alliance since 1975, providing coordinated solutions for development financing. The group has funded over 13,000 development projects in more than 160 countries worldwide, making it one of the most effective international development partnerships.

The alliance includes 10 institutions spanning national funds, regional Arab organizations, and international bodies. Members include the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, Arab Gulf Programme for Development, Arab Monetary Fund, Islamic Development Bank, Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, OPEC Fund for International Development, Qatar Fund for Development, and Saudi Fund for Development.

For investors and development finance watchers, the group's coordination efforts represent a significant pool of capital and expertise. The combined resources of these institutions provide substantial funding capacity for projects across developing countries, particularly in infrastructure, energy, and social development sectors.