RIYADH: King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) President Prince Turki bin Saud bin Mohammed Al-Saud told visiting US Secretary of Energy Ernest J. Moniz that the city is keen to develop scientific and technical partnerships with several American universities and research centers.
Prince Turki said this during discussions with Moniz on Wednesday at the KACST headquarters in Riyadh.
Highlighting existing cooperation between the United States and the Kingdom, the KACST president said the city already has some programs with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, the University of California at Berkeley, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and Harvard University. He added that these programs have contributed to the enrollment of more than 60 researchers from the city for master’s and doctoral degrees at these facilities.
Prince Turki said the city’s programs are in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision and the National Transformation Program (NTP) 2020.
The prince explained to Moniz about some of the city’s plans and programs, including the solar-run water desalination project in Al-Khafji, a solar-run electric power generation plant with 50 megawatts in Layla in Al-Aflaj Province, and a desalination and cooling project using solar energy to be implemented in collaboration with King Abdullah University for Science and Technology.
As secretary of energy, Moniz is tasked with implementing critical Department of Energy missions in support of US President Barack Obama’s goals of growing the economy, enhancing security and protecting the environment. This encompasses advancing the president’s energy strategy, maintaining nuclear deterrence, reducing the nuclear danger, promoting American leadership in science and clean energy technology innovation, cleaning up the legacy of the cold war and strengthening management and performance.
KACST has allocated SR263.2 million ($70.16 million) for 147 research projects within the Kingdom. In cooperation with the Kingdom’s national plan to work for a knowledge-based economy, the committee for the National Plan for Science, Technology and Innovation (NPSTI) has allocated around 85 percent of its funds for research in mega projects that would benefit both researchers and the Kingdom.
KACST seeks US technical cooperation for its research projects
KACST seeks US technical cooperation for its research projects
Riyadh to host Saudi orchestra concert
- Starting on Jan. 16 at the King Fahd Cultural Center, the three-day event is part of efforts to promote Saudi music to local audiences
- Concert marks the sixth stop on the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir’s global tour
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Music Commission is to host the “Marvels of Saudi Orchestra” concert in Riyadh for the first time.
Starting on Jan. 16 at the King Fahd Cultural Center, the three-day event is part of efforts to promote Saudi music to local audiences.
It will be held under the patronage of Culture Minister and Music Commission Chairman Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan.
The concert marks the sixth stop on the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir’s global tour, reports the Saudi Press Agency.
The orchestra and choir have brought Saudi heritage to prestigious stages worldwide, beginning in Paris at the Theatre du Chatelet and followed by performances at the National Theatre in Mexico, New York’s Metropolitan Opera House, Central Hall Westminster in London, and Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall.
The Riyadh concert promises a captivating musical experience, with timeless melodies that guide the audience through the Kingdom’s heritage and highlight its cultural legacy and artistic depth.
Historic exhibit in Makkah spotlights Prophet Muhammad’s journey
- At the heart of these events is the Revelation Exhibition, which tells the powerful story of the honorable prophets, from Adam to Prophet Muhammad
RIYADH: The Hira Cultural District in Makkah is alive with activities as part of the Hira Winter events, coinciding with the mid-year vacation.
A variety of attractions and services are being offered to visitors until Jan. 10, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
At the heart of these events is the Revelation Exhibition, which tells the powerful story of the honorable prophets, from Adam to Prophet Muhammad.
The exhibition focuses on the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad, immersing visitors in the pivotal moment of his life, the SPA added.
Guests can explore the revelation story, the Cave of Hira and learn about Khadija bint Khuwaylid, the Mother of Believers, and the angel Gabriel through interactive museum displays.
Using cutting-edge technology like interactive screens and realistic simulations, the exhibition offers an immersive experience for visitors.
Historical artifacts are also on display, including a photocopy of the Qur’an attributed to Uthman bin Affan, one of the oldest surviving mushafs, highlighting Muslims’ dedication to preserving the holy book.
The exhibition also showcases ancient stone inscriptions with Qur’anic verses, reflecting Muslim efforts to safeguard sacred texts.
The district also offers a unique shopping experience, with handicrafts and traditional products. It is located near the Cave of Hira and the iconic Jabal Al-Nour.
Oud, sandalwood planting initiative launched in Madinah
- Project aims to cultivate environmentally and economically valuable tree species like coffee and sandalwood
RIYADH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan has launched a project to cultivate agarwood and sandalwood trees across the region, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The event was attended by Dhafer Al-Fahad, CEO of the Jazan Mountainous Development Authority, and featured a presentation highlighting the authority’s work, achievements, and partnerships.
Prince Salman emphasized the initiative’s strategic role in promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing the region’s vegetation.
The project aims to cultivate environmentally and economically valuable tree species like coffee and sandalwood, support the local economy, and raise awareness about biodiversity conservation in the Madinah region, aligning with the environmental goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
The green initiative, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in March 2021, plans to plant 450 million trees by 2030 and rehabilitate 8 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, which would cut about 200 million tonnes of carbon emissions per year.
Saudi cabinet praises results of Syrian delegation talks in Riyadh
The Saudi Cabinet, chaired by King Salman, praised on Tuesday the outcomes of recent talks held between senior Saudi officials and a high-ranking delegation from Syria's new administration.
The cabinet reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting Syria's security and stability, as well as continuing its humanitarian and relief assistance to the Syrian people.
In a statement following the session, Minister of Media Salman bin Yousef Al-Dosari highlighted the Kingdom's rejection and condemnation of Israeli crimes against Palestinians in Gaza, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's stance on international law and humanitarian principles.
Domestically, the cabinet reviewed the progress of development programs aimed at enhancing services for citizens and diversifying the economy, alongside updates on various agenda topics, including those coordinated with the Shura Council and other government bodies.
New deal to provide disability support in Yemen
RIYADH: The Children with Disability Association and the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen signed a cooperation agreement to support Yemenis with disabilities and improve the skills of workers in the field.
Prince Sultan bin Salman, special adviser to King Salman and chairman of the association, and Mohammed Al-Jaber, the program’s general supervisor, signed the agreement in Riyadh.
Prince Sultan said that the memorandum builds on the association’s efforts to address disability-related challenges.
It aims to provide advisory services for launching medical rehabilitation centers for people with different disabilities, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Prince Sultan acknowledged King Salman’s support for the association, which has helped it expand services across the Kingdom.
The agreement also aims to share expertise, promote partnerships and organize activities to improve community integration for children with disabilities, the SPA reported.
The collaboration is part of the program’s broader efforts to support individuals with disabilities and other groups in Yemen.
