The Ports Development Company (PDC), the owner and developer of King Abdullah Port, signed at its headquarters in King Abdullah Economic City a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK).
The memorandum sets out the general principles and modalities of cooperation between the two parties to develop the capabilities of marine services at King Abdullah Port in line with Vision 2030.
The main objectives of the memorandum are to support the development of local content and the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) and provide technical support for establishing a marine office and the required facilities to offer vessel maintenance and repair services at King Abdullah Port.
The MoU was signed by Mr. Jay New, the Chief Executive Officer of King Abdullah Port representing PDC, and Dr. Mohanad Al Shaikh, the Chief Executive Officer of Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK), in the presence of several senior officials from both sides.
Commenting on the MoU, Jay New stated: ”The agreement reflects the keen interest of the leadership of Saudi Arabia to develop the Kingdom's ports.
"In addition, it aims to achieve the objectives of the vision of HRH the Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman by leveraging Saudi Arabia's unique geographical location on the red sea through which 13% of world trade passes, and develop the Kingdom as a major center of international trade and a hub connecting three continents.
King Abdullah Port Jumps 3 Spots to Rank 84th in Lloyd's Top 100 Ports
"The memorandum comes as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to achieve the objectives of NIDLP, one of the largest and most ambitious programs under the Saudi Vision 2030 that aims to enhance the competitiveness of the economy and transform the Kingdom into a leading global logistics center."
Dr. Mohanad Al Shaikh said: "The signing of the memorandum of understanding reflects the keenness of the two parties to establish a strategic partnership to support the national economy and to take advantage of potential opportunities.
"The Ports Development Company is a leading global company in providing repair services. It aims to further develop the commercial capacity of King Abdullah Port by establishing facilities for vessel maintenance and repair services."
King Abdullah Port's delivers integrated services to its customers by taking advantage of its strategic location along the coast of King Abdullah Economic City, which is considered one of the most advanced cities that support businesses and investments with the latest technologies and qualified professionals.
Read More: Maersk Saudi Arabia and King Abdullah Port Enter Strategic Partnership