RIYADH — The World Defense Show (WDS) 2022 has hosted leading women, within the Women in Defense Program, which aims at promoting and empowering women's participation in the sector.

The program comes as a part of the activities of WDS's first edition, being held in Riyadh from March 6 to 9.

The program included the participation of Princess Reema Bint Bandar Bin Sultan, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States, Chief Executive Officer of General Dynamics Phebe Novakovic, and former President and Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce North America Marion Blakey.

Princess Reema affirmed that the empowerment of Saudi women is one of the key goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030. The momentum needs to continue on a global level and the "Women in Defense program" in the World Defense Show provides a unique platform and opportunity to build on this success, she added.

World Defense Show comes at an opportune time both for the Kingdom and the global defense industry, head of the Women in Defense program at WDS 2022 Penny McPherson said while pointing out that the participation of women from around the world would enhance women's progress locally and globally.

The Women in Defense Program hosted prominent speakers and a series of seminars, providing an ideal platform for discussions and cooperation on the development of initiatives to enhance the role of women in the defense sector. — SPA