Veolia to be Silver Sponsor at 2nd Saudi French Business Opportunities Forum in Riyadh

Veolia, the global leader in environmental resources management, has announced its participation as Silver Sponsor of the 2nd Saudi French Business Opportunities Forum.  The forum, which aims to strengthen the relationship between Saudi Arabia and France, is taking place in Riyadh from 12th - 13th October, 2015. Global Chairman and CEO of Veolia, Antoine Frérot, will share key insights during a discussion titled ‘Infrastructure and networks in new cities.’

Both Saudi Arabia and France have a history of strong economic ties. In 2015, the countries shared approximately 42 billion SAR in trade and investment, including more than 74 billion SAR in French investments across 207 projects, including joint ventures, in the Kingdom. Today, there are more than 80 French companies operating in Saudi Arabia.

“We are thrilled to be participating as silver sponsors for this forum, and are delighted to be an integral part in the strengthening of ties between Saudi Arabia and France. This forum is an excellent opportunity to develop new business opportunities and innovation in both markets. Saudi Arabia has been a long-standing key market for Veolia, and we look forward to further expanding our services to better provide environmental resources management solutions across the Kingdom,” said Antoine Frérot, Chairman and CEO of Veolia. “Our participation is a testament to our continued commitment to Saudi Arabia and to enhancing strategic business developments between the Kingdom and France.”

The forum will host a series of roundtables and panel discussions which will highlight recommendations and initiatives to build strategic business alliances between the two markets. A series of panel discussions and roundtables will also explore opportunities to develop knowledge-based business parks and smart cities, which will enable new sustainable trade and industry projects.

The 2nd Saudi French Business Opportunities Forum also aims to encourage small to medium sized companies to establish businesses relationships across both markets.

Veolia has been operating in Saudi Arabia for more than 30 years, and continues to expand its services across the Kingdom. Veolia’s services include waste-management projects, district cooling, industrial utilities and environmental footprint improvement, consulting services and a strong saudization program. In 2008, Veolia was awarded a performance contract with NWC (National Water Company) for six years to enhance the overall performances of water & wastewater treatment services. This project has served more than five million people in the city of Riyadh, with 82% network efficiency and 85% customer satisfaction. Veolia is also involved in major Oil & Gas projects supporting the industry in its effort to be more sustainable.

Earlier this year, Veolia was recognised by the Human Resources Development Fund for the company’s commitment to Saudization efforts of attracting and maintaining Saudi employees. Veolia Saudi Arabia has introduced a plan to increase the Saudization ratio and attract young and talented Saudi women and men.

The Forum will be taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in the Ritz Carlton Hotel, 12th - 13th October, 2015.