MOSCOW: Saudi Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources Khalid Al-Falih and his delegation on Thursday met with Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov in Moscow, on the margins of King Salman’s current visit to the Russian Federation.
The meeting discussed the importance of coordination between the Kingdom and Russia in the field of manufacturing, aluminum, boats, and oil and gas drilling equipment, as well as electronics, and communication and navigation controls.
The two ministers also stressed the importance of cooperation in the industry of trains and railroad tracks and the importance of looking to the Russian experience in nationalizing some industrial private sectors, indicating that the king’s visit to Russia will boost bilateral relations and that coordination between the two countries will have positive impacts on the world’s economy, politics, and especially the energy sector.
Al-Falih emphasized the importance of cooperating in non-oil fields as well, such as manufacturing and mining, and reaching to the emerging markets of Africa and the Middle East, stressing the importance of the collaborative work to overcome obstacles and raise the level of the two countries’ commercial exchange, especially since the Saudi political leadership and executive institutions are fully ready and willing to do so.
Al-Falih also stressed that the Saudi companies are oriented toward the Russian market, stressing the importance of the Saudi Export Development Authority’s organization of Saudi industries’ exhibitions in Russia to support this investment orientation.
Al-Falih called for the formation of a joint team to benefit from the Russian experience in developing manufacturing supply chains and small and medium industries.
The Kingdom welcomes all energy resources, regardless of their type or extraction locations, including solar energy. The Kingdom now offers investment in the renewable energy sector, and Russia is welcome to invest, he added.
Al-Falih lauded the visit of King Salman to Russia, saying it will benefit both countries’ interests.
He pointed to the Kingdom’s establishment of a solar electricity facility this week, for the cheapest prices ever recorded, which is enough to attract investors, and especially the fellow Russians.
Al-Falih told the SPA: “Saudi-Russian cooperation in the economic field is continuing, and we are working on promoting this cooperation, the reason why I have already visited Russia three times this year.”
“As we witness an increasing demand on oil from the developed and emerging countries, the world will need all oil resources, including shale oil,” he added.
Saudi-Russian ties will create positive impact on world economy
Saudi-Russian ties will create positive impact on world economy
King Salman academy, Ministry of Education honor reading contest winners
- Academy awards winners from participants across 30 countries
RIYADH: The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, and the Ministry of Education honored the winners of the Children’s Reading Challenge in Riyadh on Sunday.
The academy awarded SR250,000 ($67,000) to 60 winners from a total of nearly 8,000 participants across 30 countries.
Abdullah Al-Washmi, the academy’s secretary-general, thanked the Ministry of Education for promoting the competition in Saudi schools.
He also praised the judges, schools, and institutions for their contributions toward the academy achieving its goals — enhancing classical Arabic speaking skills, strengthening its presence in education and culture, and providing a platform for talented children.
Al-Washmi highlighted the competition’s international reach, saying: “This confirms the global status of the Arabic language and the academy’s role in promoting its spread and supporting linguistic creativity among future generations.”
The event featured a theatrical performance by children which showcased their speech and skills of expression in an engaging cultural display.
The academy offered a training course on speaking skills on the sidelines, covering voice control techniques, audience interaction, expressive performance, and confidence in speech.
Maha Al-Otaibi, head of the linguistic culture sector at the academy, said that the participation of about 8,000 children from 30 countries reflected the growing global interest in the Arabic language.
Al-Otaibi said: “The competition contributes to strengthening cultural identity and consolidating Arab children’s connection to their mother tongue.
“It enhances their love for the art of the Arabic language and encourages families and teachers to support it, especially amid the challenges posed by the influence of other languages," she told Arab News.
She spoke of the programs accompanying the ceremony, such as the interactive Arabic language exhibition and the training course which helps children acquire essential skills to strengthen their Arabic proficiency and bring them closer to classical Arabic.
“Such programs contribute to promoting the spread of the Arabic language globally, building a generation aware of its culture and language, and capable of representing it with pride and distinction,” Al-Otaibi said.
Road improvements worth SR8 billion announced for Riyadh
- Eight new projects, costing around SR8 billion, are second phase of Road Development Program for capital
RIYADH: The second phase of a project to expand Riyadh’s road network and improve traffic congestion has been announced.
The eight new projects, costing around SR8 billion ($2.13 billion), are the second phase of the Road Development Program for the capital, announced by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.
As part of the works, a 20km road network surrounding King Abdullah Financial District will be developed to include three intersections and 19 bridges. Two major intersections will be constructed on Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz I Road in the northern part of Riyadh, as well as three bridges and a tunnel, increasing road capacity to 200,000 vehicles per day.
In the center of Riyadh, five intersections will be upgraded on the Thumamah Road axis, and 11 bridges and five tunnels will be constructed, also increasing road capacity to 200,000 vehicles per day.
Imam Abdullah bin Saud Road will have four main intersections, three bridges and two tunnels, increasing capacity to 200,000 vehicles daily. Dirab Road, where there will be two main intersections and nine bridges, will see an increased vehicle capacity of 340,000 vehicles per day.
Imam Muslim Road will serve as the future southern extension of the Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz I axis with the construction of four main intersections and four bridges, increasing capacity to 200,000 vehicles per day. Connecting King Salman Road in the east and Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Road in the north, an intersection bridge is planned to enhance traffic flow in the area.
The final project in this phase will see engineering modifications for high congestion areas, an extension of work started in the first phase which will improve congestion during peak traffic hours.
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City is working with the relevant authorities to ensure seamless traffic flow during the works, which are expected to take around three years.
In the meantime, the Road Development Program for Circular and Main Axes in Riyadh will be working to support the city’s increasing population, improve connectivity, boost traffic flow, increase travel speeds and decrease travel time, and ease cross-city transportation.
Launched by the RCRC in August 2024, the first phase included four projects with a total worth of SR13 billion.
Singing workshop in Dammam teaches budding performers the art of solfege
- Session teaches vocal technique, sight reading, performance
- Event aimed to support up-and-coming artists in Eastern Province
DAMMAM: A unique solfege singing workshop was held recently at the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts in Dammam, led by the talented Egyptian singer, music teacher, and oud player Mohamed Magdy.
A teacher at Altahtheeb School, Magdy brought his wealth of experience and passion for music to a diverse group eager to enhance their vocal skills and understanding of music theory.
Solfege, a method that uses syllables — such as do, re, and mi — to represent pitches, is crucial in developing a solid foundation in music education, according to Magdy.
He told Arab News: “The importance of solfege lies in its ability to enhance the understanding of music and improve vocal performance and sight-reading.
“Many struggle with musical notation, seeing it as impossible to learn. I aimed to create a workshop that provides a practical learning environment to help individuals develop their musical ear and confidence in singing and reading music.”
The workshop, designed to be interactive and hands-on, allowed participants to fully immerse themselves in the learning process.
Audience members displayed their talents individually, showcasing their skills in singing and performance. They practiced with each other and the workshop proved to be a supportive and collaborative environment in which everyone felt encouraged to explore their musical abilities.
Magdy added: “Solfege is vital in music education, assisting musicians of all levels in developing their auditory, reading, and performing skills.”
He listed its key benefits, including strengthening rhythm sensitivity, improving vocal performances, supporting composition, and serving musicians, from beginners to professionals.
Magdy’s passion for music is deeply rooted in his upbringing. “My love for singing started with my parents, who recognized my talent early on,” he said.
Under the guidance of his father, a doctor at the Arabic Music Institute, he pursued music wholeheartedly, graduating from Cairo University in 2016 and later from the Higher Institute of Arabic Music in 2022, with honors.
Despite initial hesitation from his family, they ultimately supported his artistic ambitions.
Magdy’s achievements include performances at renowned events such as the Arabic Music Festival at the Egyptian Opera House, alongside his roles in teaching solfege, piano, oud, and Eastern singing.
He said: “My passion for music has driven me to share it with others, providing immense joy.
“I chose to become a singing teacher to help others discover their potential, improve their performance, and build self-confidence in singing, whether as a hobby or professionally.”
The enthusiasm of those participating was evident, and the experience resonated deeply.
Audience member Samar Khadra, a pharmacist, singer, songwriter, and poet, expressed her thoughts on the workshop, telling Arab News: “It was a good experience. I enjoyed the interaction between the presenter and the participants.
“I’ve seen many talents in the Eastern Province, and it would benefit the government to support these individuals in gaining the musical knowledge necessary to become professional singers and musicians.”
Participants left the workshop with new skills, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation of the art of music.
‘Difference’ exhibition in Dammam celebrates Saudi artists
- Event features series of workshops, including art therapy sessions
- Diverse collection blends a variety of techniques and styles
DHAHRAN: A vibrant art exhibition titled “Difference” is celebrating the work of three talented Saudi artists.
Held at the Saudi Arabian Society of Culture and Arts in Dammam from Jan. 27 to Feb. 3, the exhibition displays the works of Faraj Al-Dossary, Maha Al-Askar, and Eman Al-Youssef.
Each artist brings their unique vision to the canvas, celebrating their individual style while seamlessly contributing to the shared theme of the exhibition.
Al-Dossary is showcasing a diverse collection blending a variety of techniques and styles.
Often drawing inspiration from everyday life, his work illustrates subjects ranging from coffee and flowers to rich Arabic calligraphy.
Al-Dossary’s 14 paintings, which incorporate impressionistic, realistic, and abstract styles, burst with color thanks to his skillful use of acrylic and oil paints.
His artistic journey, marked by a strong foundation in realism, has recently evolved as he delves into the worlds of impressionism and abstraction.
“After reaching a stage of mastery in the realistic style, I wanted to create something new,” Al-Dossary told Arab News.
“This new style has pleased many of my followers, and I’m thrilled to embark on this experience.”
As part of the exhibition, he conducted a live drawing workshop that drew crowds eager to witness his process firsthand.
Building on this captivating showcase, Maha Al-Askar’s artworks stand out for their dynamic style, featuring fluid art techniques with wave-like patterns and marbling effects.
“Each painting is a story that I have crafted with my colors,” she explained.
Al-Askar specialized in art at King Saud University and worked as an art teacher for deaf people for 20 years.
Her seven abstract works invite viewers to interpret scenes reminiscent of cosmic landscapes, with paintings that blend earthy tones with bright whites and blues, creating depth and suggesting light emerging from darkness.
Eman Al-Youssef is likewise capturing visitors with her art therapy sessions and abstract works.
With a portfolio of eight paintings displayed at the exhibition, Youssef emphasizes the healing power of colors and the transformative nature of art.
Her approach blends various styles and elements, including calligraphy, shapes, and squiggles, resulting in compelling pieces that encourage artistic exploration.
Youssef’s art therapy workshop on Jan. 28 focused on using art for emotional healing, guiding participants to explore their feelings through creative expression.
Along with the exhibition, SASCA held a meeting on Saturday titled “Writing about the past to imagine the future of arts in the Kingdom.”
The event emphasized the significance of historical discourse in shaping modern art, encouraging participants to engage with evolving cultural narratives.
Saudi Arabia plays crucial role in achieving Middle East peace, says Danish foreign minister
- Rasmussen commends Kingdom’s efforts in Palestine, Lebanon, Syrian Arab Republic
- FM ‘thrilled’ about first official visit in 9 years
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in achieving peace in the Middle East, Denmark’s foreign minister told Arab News during an official visit on Sunday, the first such visit in nine years.
Lars Lokke Rasmussen commended Saudi Arabia’s continuous diplomatic efforts in Palestine, Lebanon and Syrian Arab Republic.
He noted “the very crucial … and constructive role Saudi Arabia is playing in the entire region” at a critical time that has seen a ceasefire implemented in Gaza, a new president elected in Lebanon, and a new regime come to power in the Syrian Arab Republic.
“There is a real possibility that we could have peace in Syria, but also (to) a large extent a more … peaceful region,” Rasmussen added.
The foreign minister underlined that his visit to the Kingdom is driven by two key objectives: to recognize Saudi Arabia’s constructive role in the region and to strengthen bilateral ties across various sectors such as trade and investment.
Rasmussen’s visit is the first by a Danish foreign minister to Saudi Arabia in over nine years.
“Finally, I’m here, and I’m very thrilled about it for many good reasons,” he told Arab News.
His visit coincided with that of the Syrian Arab Republic’s President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, who was in Riyadh on his first official visit since he led the overthrow of the Assad regime late last year.
Speaking of the country’s new leader, Rasmussen expressed he was “happy” with the developments that took place in Damascus, adding that “Saudi Arabia is a very important player in all this” and that “there’s a real possibility of a long-lasting peace and a much more stable region.
“Of course, we recognize that there are dilemmas, given the past of the new leader, so to speak …
“Should we pay attention to his curriculum vitae, or should we pay attention to the speeches he’s giving now? … I think the jury’s still out, but we want to give him the benefit of the doubt,” Rasmussen said.
Denmark intends to engage with the new Syrian Arab Republic government, he said, explaining that as a foreign minister, he has introduced humanitarian assistance packages to the Syrian Arab Republic following the announcement of the government.
Rasmussen said the aid was introduced for two reasons: to assist in a humanitarian sense and to send a message from Denmark to Syrian Arab Republic that the former was ready and willing to engage.
During his visit, the foreign minister is set to meet with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to discuss geopolitical relations further.
On the topic of the recent ceasefire in Palestine, the Danish official stressed that a two-state solution is the “only solution” to the reconstruction of Gaza, addressing statements made by other world leaders that the solution cannot be “exporting the Palestinian problem to neighboring countries.”
Rasmussen said: “I support a two-state solution … that is a consensus decision in the Danish parliament and has been our position for many, many years.
“And that’s why we have joined the global coalition behind the two-state solution,” he added, referring to the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
“And I want to commend my good colleague in Saudi Arabia for taking this initiative together with the European Union. I think that is, at the end of the day, the only suitable solution.”
He added that a two-state solution is also in Israel’s best interest.
“You can’t solve that problem without creating a sovereign Palestine state, and any idea of just exporting the Palestinian problem to neighboring countries … It’s not doable,” he said.
Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, the Palestinian Authority and the Arab League recently released a joint statement in response to US President Donald Trump, rejecting his proposal that regional leaders take in Palestinians from Gaza.
“Jordan (has) already done tremendously good work and shown a lot of generosity hosting many, many Palestinian refugees,” Rasmussen said.
“Now we need the ceasefire, and then we need a proper discussion about reconstruction in Gaza,” he said.
The official stressed that the Palestinian Authority must also be involved in the solution.
He proposed that the EU aid the Palestinian Authority “in order to give them the needed competencies to take upon themselves this task.”
The foreign minister also addressed the status of relations between Denmark and the US following Trump’s attempts to acquire the Danish territory of Greenland.
“I think the narrative that all Greenlanders should prefer to become Americans is not a true narrative,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Rasmussen said that he and Trump “have an excellent working relationship.
“Frankly … and I don’t think it will offend him, he’s kind of (a) different politician. But we managed to overcome that,” he said.
He added that despite the “America first” policy and “tariffs” in Trump’s first term, Danish-American relations actually managed to grow stronger, with the US becoming Denmark’s largest export market.
“We have awaited his inauguration,” he said.
“Equally as important (are) the bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Denmark and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where I really think there’s huge potential for further cooperation.
“I really want to recognize the development in Saudi Arabia, which is quite impressive.”
While Denmark is a small country, it is home to world-class companies with strongholds in green energy, food security and water management, Rasmussen said.
During his trip, the official will also meet with Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services Saleh Al-Jasser, with whom he plans to sign a memorandum of understanding, the details of which have not yet been disclosed.
