DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Saudi Arabia is moving ahead with plans to hold a glitzy investment forum, despite some of its most important speakers pulling out in the global outcry over the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
The Future Investment Initiative, which kicks off Tuesday, was intended to draw leading investors who could help underwrite Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious plans to revamp the economy. But after the wave of cancellations, it could instead highlight the kingdom's growing isolation and the damage inflicted on the prince's reputation — as well as potentially his political future.
The forum is the brainchild of the crown prince, whose lofty vision for the Saudi economy hinges on his ability to attract foreign investments and create enough jobs for the millions of young Saudis who will be entering the workforce in the coming years.
