Minister of Labor Dr. Ghazi Al-Qusaibi, addressing in Riyadh today a forum entitled ‘Human resources development: a common responsibility’ organized by the Human Resources Development Fund, pointed out that the Saudi leadership had given express directives that the utmost priority be given to combating unemployment. This, he said, will not succeed if the number of expatriates, is not reduced, pointing out that the Manpower Council [now part of the Ministry of Labor] had made the decision to limit expatriate workers and their dependents to no more than 20 percent of the total population by 2012. Moreover, he said, Saudization will not succeed if it is not accompanied by real training of young Saudis to qualify them for work in the private sector. In addition, there are the problems of an educated work force entering the labor market every year; and the Kingdom's unique demographics with over 60 percent of its population under 21.

The forum is a three-in-one event: an international forum on major issues concerning human resource development, a series of workshops designed to expand job opportunities for Saudis, and an exhibition showcasing the latest in training and employment opportunities.

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