Closing plenary session of the UNIDO Global Industry Summit (November 2025). Tipping Point: Setting Global Industry on a Fairer, Greener Path to Economic Growth Conor Lenon, Riyadh Economic Development
The international community took another step toward making industrial development more environmentally friendly and equitable with the adoption of the Riyadh Declaration on Thursday, the final day of the Global Industry Summit in the capital of Saudi Arabia.
The world is moving inexorably towards further industrialization, opening up opportunities to create decent jobs and improve the well-being of millions of the poorest people on Earth. But for industrial growth to truly benefit all people and the planet, international trade and industry must evolve to reduce emissions. This has not always been the case in the past, but the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is working to change that. “We are well aware of the challenges and problems, but we are here to provide solutions,” says Manuel Mattiat, UNIDO Chief. “With the knowledge we have, the technology available and the financial resources available, anything is possible.”
Investing in the Global South
Manuel Mattiat, Head of UNIDO
Mattiat was interviewed by UN News Service on the final day of the summit, which discussed a wide range of issues related to industrial development in the Global South, from youth entrepreneurship to women’s business opportunities.
Amid unprecedented attention to the work of the UN, the conference in Riyadh demonstrates the expertise and knowledge that the world’s leading multilateral organization can offer investors and business. And a set of practical solutions to lift the most vulnerable people out of poverty.
“We are here to build bridges,” explains Matiat. – Many developed, industrialized countries with resources and a high level of development are ready to invest, but have not yet found suitable entry points. That is why we have gathered in Riyadh: to mobilize investment for the least developed countries.”
People are at the forefront
On Thursday, representatives of UNIDO member states – both developed and developing – adopted the Riyadh Declaration, which calls for strengthened cooperation between governments, business and civil society to ensure industrialization contributes to green economies, fair opportunities and improved living conditions.
The declaration, which highlights youth issues and women’s rights, aims to increase access to skills and employment for all groups of the population. The document emphasizes the importance of innovation and digital transformation – developing countries must be able to take advantage of new technologies and compete effectively in global markets.
The adoption of the declaration is seen as a turning point in global industrial policy: it lays the foundation for mobilizing resources and delivering tangible results for communities around the world.
Riyadh Declaration: in brief
- Promotes inclusive and sustainable industrial development as an engine for poverty reduction, job creation and sustainability.
- Calls for sustainable practices consistent with the Paris Agreement and UN climate goals.
- Encourages digital transformation and innovation to close the technology gap.
- Emphasizes the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges such as inequality and climate change.