Saudi Arabia Highlights Role of Science and Innovation in Achieving Global Sustainability Goals at G20-CSAR

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) President Dr. Munir Eldesouki underscored the importance of science, technology, and innovation (STI) in tackling global challenges and advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while leading the Saudi delegation at the G20 Chief Science Advisers Roundtable (G20-CSAR) held in Pretoria.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Eldesouki highlighted this year’s agenda priorities—linking STI to the SDGs, enabling a just energy transition, promoting an open and equitable global knowledge system, and strengthening scientific capacities in developing countries—as critical pillars for shaping effective policy decisions at both national and international levels.

He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to investing in STI as part of its broader strategy to build a knowledge-based economy. He also outlined several major initiatives, including the Saudi Green Initiative, the Middle East Green Initiative, the Kingdom’s preparations to host COP16 on desertification, and its target of generating 50% of national energy from renewable sources by 2030. Additionally, he pointed to the Kingdom’s hosting of the World Bank’s Knowledge Hub, aimed at fostering international knowledge exchange.

Addressing global priorities, Dr. Eldesouki stressed that science and technology remain central to solving pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges such as energy security, desertification, and water scarcity. He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting international cooperation, strengthening inclusive partnerships, and advancing STI as a driver of sustainable development and shared prosperity.