Saudi Arabia, US share ‘identical views’ on regional issues — Saudi FM

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir shakes hands with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during a joint press briefing at the Royal airport in the capital Riyadh. (AFP)
Updated 29 April 2018
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Saudi Arabia, US share ‘identical views’ on regional issues — Saudi FM

  • Saudi Arabia stresses the deep and strategic relations with the US and the shared mutual interests in several fields
  • The meetings highlighted the common views between the two sides in several issues and the desire to intensify joint efforts to tackle the issues in the region

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir stressed the deep and strategic relations between the Kingdom and the United States and the shared mutual interests in several fields, particularly security, military, commercial, social, and educational fields.
Al-Jubeir was speaking at a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Riyadh, stressing that the bilateral meetings that were held within the framework of his visit to the Middle East, were positive, constructive, and fruitful.
During the meeting, the pair reviewed bilateral relations and ways of enhancing them in all fields. They also discussed the challenges in the region, including the situations in Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, as well as Iran’s negative interventions in the region, the crisis in Yemen, supporting the five countries in the African Sahel Region, and ways of dealing with the Libyan crisis. 
The Saudi Foreign Minister said the meetings highlighted the two sides “identical viewpoints” regarding several issues and the desire to intensify mutual efforts to to “enhance Iran’s Nuclear Deal” and tackle the issues of the region.
“We look forward to working with the Secretary of State in the future for the interests of the two friendly countries,” said Al-Jubeir.
Regarding Iran, Minister Al-Jubeir noted: “We said in the past that the Kingdom supports the policy of President Donald Trump and the efforts to improve the Iranian nuclear agreement, and we believe that it must have a limit to the quantity of uranium enrichment, it should be eliminated permanently and we believe monitoring Iran’s nuclear sites must be intensified.”
He added: “We believe that the Iranian problem must be dealt with by imposing further sanctions on Iran for violating international resolutions on ballistic missiles, supporting terrorism and for intervening in the affairs of the countries of the region.” 
For his part, Pompeo stressed the Kingdom is a key partner and long-time friend of the US and their bilateral partnership is growing to serve the common interests.
The US official thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their generous hospitality, saying: “I have had the opportunity to work closely with Saudi Arabian leaders for years, and I look forward to the constructive work as United States Secretary of State.”
The Secretary of State praised the outcomes of the Saudi Crown Prince’s visit to the US the last month, his welcome by Trump and his meetings with many administration’s leaders.
During his visit to Riyadh, which is the first leg of a Middle East tour, and talks with Mohammed bin Salman, Pompeo said topics related to Iran, Syria, and Yemen were discussed, as well as relations with Gulf countries.
He said the “Saudi Arabia’s security is a priority for the US and we will continue to work closely with our Saudi partners to counter threats to this country’s security.” 
“That, of course, starts with Iran. Iran destabilizes this entire region. It supports proxy militias and terrorist groups. It arms – it is an arms dealer to the Houthi rebels in Yemen, and Iran conducts cyberhacking campaigns. It supports the murderous Assad regime as well,” he added.
Pompeo also said: “Unlike the prior administration, we will not neglect the vast scope of Iran’s terrorism. It is indeed the greatest sponsor of terrorism in the world, and we are determined to make sure it never possesses a nuclear weapon. The Iran deal in its current form does not provide that assurance. 
“We will continue to work with our European allies to fix that deal, but if a deal cannot be reached, the President has said that he will leave that deal,” he stated.
Pompeo went on to say that the nuclear agreement has failed to moderate the regime’s conduct in many other areas, noting that “Iran has only behaved worse since the deal was approved,” as it has been supporting Houthi rebels in Yemen by providing military equipment, training and funding.
He described this as a violation of Iran’s commitments to the UN Security Council resolutions, also referring to the Houthi’s continued targeting of the Kingdom and the navigation routes in the Red Sea with ballistic missiles. However, he insisted a political solution was the only way to advance long-term stability in Yemen and end the suffering.
The Secretary of State also said there was an agreement to support the efforts of the new UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Martin Griffiths, and push for a lasting political solution to end the civil war and address the deteriorating security situation, pointing out that Al-Qaeda and Daesh took advantage of the long political and security vacuum left by this conflict.
He said: “The visit of President Trump to Saudi Arabia was historic. He attended the opening of the Global Center for Combating Extremist Ideology (ETIDAL),” indicating that Muslim-majority countries should head the fight against extremism and violence.
“If we’re going to conquer extremism and defeat the forces of terrorism together, I know that Saudi Arabia will be at the front of it. We all must honestly confront the crisis of Islamist extremism and the Islamist terror groups it inspires,” he declared.
He stressed his country’s readiness to stand with the Kingdom in its pursuit of common interests and bilateral security, noting that Vision 2030 and the reform agenda were inspiring initiatives that promote tolerance, respect, economic development and women empowerment.
Concluding, Pompeo stressed strong US support for promoting common economic and security interests and emphasized the necessity of Gulf unity to ensure regional security.
On Friday at a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Brussels, the first stop on his trip, Pompeo repeated Trump’s pledge to withdraw from the Iran deal unless it is significantly strengthened. He said the US was “unlikely” to stay in if that was not done.
“Absent a substantial fix, absent overcoming the shortcomings, the flaws of the deal, he is unlikely to stay in that deal past this May,” Pompeo said.
Also looming over the trip is uncertainty over Trump’s policy on Syria, which has shifted between a speedy all-out withdrawal of American forces and leaving a lasting footprint to deter Iran from completing a land bridge from Tehran to Beirut.
Pompeo also is taking a leading role in President Donald Trump’s preparations for an expected summit in May or early June with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Pompeo, while en route to Israel, was asked whether a US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal would complicate negotiations
“I don’t think Kim Jung Un is staring at the Iran deal and saying, ‘Oh goodness, if they get out of that deal, I won’t talk to the Americans anymore. There are higher priorities, things he is more concerned about than whether the Americans stay” in the accord, Pompeo said.


Riyadh forum explores reading’s role in growth

Updated 11 sec ago
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Riyadh forum explores reading’s role in growth

RIYADH: The Reading Forum, organized by the Libraries Commission, recently concluded at King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh.

The forum featured dialogue sessions and workshops attracting reading and culture enthusiasts, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Discussions covered novels as artistic expressions that reflect culture and history, foster critical thinking, and the role of narration in promoting cross-cultural dialogue.

Participants highlighted reading and research as tools for personal growth, lifelong learning, and effective content creation.

They emphasized the importance of translation in cultural exchange and global copyright, the SPA reported.

Sessions explored instilling a love for reading in youth through collaboration between families, schools and society, as well as leadership in literary trends and the impact of genres on critical thinking.

The event set out to position reading as a foundation of progress, celebrating Saudi, Arab and global literary talent while fostering a culture of knowledge and intellectual growth.


Riyadh festival explores role of theater in shaping intellectual, artistic futures

Updated 25 min 37 sec ago
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Riyadh festival explores role of theater in shaping intellectual, artistic futures

RIYADH: The Riyadh Theater Festival is hosting a series of cultural discussions and theatrical performances distinguished by intellectual depth and artistic excellence.

Organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, the festival is being held at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University until Dec. 26.

A seminar on contemporary theater in the Arab world explored the intersection of creativity and sustainability, bringing together an elite group of theater thinkers and creators.

One of the festival’s participants, Kamal Al-Alawi from Tunisia, reviewed the evolution of theater, tracing its journey from the Greek era through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance to the time of Emile Zola, which marked a qualitative shift and revolution in impressionism.

Among the intellectuals and theater experts, Lina Abiad from Lebanon discussed ways to improve theatrical production and modernize it using contemporary methodologies.

The commission’s CEO, Sultan Al-Bazie, described the festival as a cornerstone for advancing theatrical movement in the Kingdom and increasing public awareness of the performing arts.

This year’s event features 20 performances, selected by a committee of experts, reflecting the diversity of theatrical arts in the Kingdom and its intellectual and developmental programs.

The festival underscores the commission’s commitment to supporting the performing arts and Saudi talent, aiming for a strong presence on regional and international stages. It will conclude with a presentation of awards to distinguished performers.


Jeddah Book Fair wraps up with 450,000 books sold

Updated 31 min 57 sec ago
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Jeddah Book Fair wraps up with 450,000 books sold

  • The event hosted workshops, seminars, panel discussions and book signings led by experts in literature, arts and sports

Jeddah: The Jeddah Book Fair concluded on Saturday, attracting thousands of visitors with local and international booksellers.

Held from Dec. 12-21 under the slogan “Jeddah Reads,” the fair featured more than 450 pavilions and showcased works from 1,000 publishing houses across 22 countries.

Mohammed Alwan, CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, said that the fair displayed nearly 400,000 titles, selling more than 450,000 books in various genres.

The event hosted workshops, seminars, panel discussions and book signings led by experts in literature, arts and sports.

A dedicated children’s section featured animation, educational books and advanced learning tools.

One pavilion highlighted the cultural significance of camels, using modern technology to explore their history, types, and related poetry.

Arabic manga publications targeting youth were also a key attraction, alongside interactive displays and models of famous characters, offering a blend of entertainment and education.


Camels, kabsa, and kindness: a British influencer’s unexpected adventure in Saudi Arabia

Henry Moores found reassurance through Visit Saudi, which provided him with resources and connections across the country.
Updated 21 December 2024
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Camels, kabsa, and kindness: a British influencer’s unexpected adventure in Saudi Arabia

  • Henry Moores walked to Riyadh from UAE ahead of Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk’s rematch
  • ‘I hope to strengthen my relationship with my Saudi friends,’ says Moores

RIYADH: Henry Moores, a British influencer, has made an unusual journey to Riyadh for the high-profile boxing rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, having walked across Saudi Arabia from the UAE.

Describing the trip as an opportunity he “simply couldn’t afford to miss,” Moores told Arab News: “Riyadh has long been on my radar for many years, and when the opportunity presented itself through the Fury fight, everything aligned perfectly.”

On Saturday evening the two heavyweights compete for the WBA, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles in a much-anticipated rematch from their bout last May. It is a fight of historic significance.

Henry Moores, British influencer

The response from Moores’ followers to his Saudi adventure has been “overwhelmingly positive,” he said.

“Initially, I wasn’t sure how they would react, especially as I was venturing to a place I had never visited before. However, everyone embraced the journey and truly loved the experience.”

Despite initial apprehension, Moores found reassurance through Visit Saudi, which provided him with resources and connections across the country. “I felt completely reassured about my safety.”

Saudi Arabia is stunning. I’ve met so many incredible people, and I’ve never felt safer in a country. This definitely won’t be my last time in the Kingdom.

Henry Moores, British influencer

His experiences with Saudi hospitality have been particularly memorable. “As soon as we arrived in Saudi Arabia, we were warmly welcomed by the locals with gifts, water, and offers of help and support. All my nerves were settled instantly,” he said.

“What surprised me the most was the incredible hospitality and generosity of the people,” he added. “I was actually given more bottles of water than I had purchased, and on several occasions, I was refused the chance to pay for my meals.”

One of Moores’ highlights was being welcomed into the home of the mayor of Haradh. “We shared tea, engaging conversation, and a delicious serving of kabsa,” he said.

His adventure also included a visit to a camel farm, an experience he recalled fondly. “We met a young man named Milfy, who was around my age, and he invited us to his camel farm. There, we had the unique experience of milking camels and drinking the milk right on the spot.”

Moores also addressed initial skepticism from some of his followers about his journey. “Those same individuals later apologized for their opinions and shared how much they’d love to visit Saudi Arabia now. I believe my content clearly showcased just how incredible Saudi Arabia is.”

His passion for hiking and walking, which he attributes to his mother’s influence during his childhood, was a significant part of his trip. “Reaching the heart of the Kingdom feels like a dream come true — something I never imagined I’d experience,” he said, adding that his first impressions were of a “beautiful, modern city” that captivated him.

Looking forward, Moores expressed eagerness to explore more of Saudi Arabia, particularly Diriyah, local cuisines, and Boulevard World.

He praised Visit Saudi for their support in logistics and translation. “Visit Saudi played a crucial role in connecting me, providing translation services, and facilitating the logistics of bringing a team, cameras, and a support car to make this trip possible,” he noted.

Moores also stated his desire to return. “Saudi Arabia is stunning. I’ve met so many incredible people, and I’ve never felt safer in a country. This definitely won’t be my last time in the Kingdom.

“I hope to strengthen my relationship with my Saudi friends and continue collaborating in the future, as I’m already looking forward to returning.”

 


Saudi farmers sow seeds of sustainability in Najran’s fertile soil

Updated 21 December 2024
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Saudi farmers sow seeds of sustainability in Najran’s fertile soil

  • The ministry’s involvement and support is pivotal for agricultural initiatives in Najran, providing farmers with marketing help, technical advice, and promoting organic farming practices to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food

RIYADH: The agricultural landscape of the Najran region, historically a cultural and economic anchor, now stands at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s push for food security, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality, according to a report from the Saudi Press Agency published on Saturday.

“Blessed with fertile land, a temperate climate, and diverse topography like mountainous terrain and extensive plains, Najran is a year-round agricultural hub,” the SPA stated.

Farmers in Najran cultivate crops including citrus fruits, wheat varieties such as Al-Samraa, samma, and zarai, and a range of dates including bayadh, mawakil, barhi, khalas, and rutab.

The region also yields tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, zucchini, beans, onions, and various leafy greens.

FASTFACT

The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture’s provides farmers with marketing help, technical advice, and promotes organic farming practices to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food.

Through the use of innovative modern agricultural practices, local farmers have “effectively contributed to producing healthy, safe food free from pesticides and chemical fertilizers,” according to the SPA.

Hamad Al-Abbas has been an organic famer for the past six years. His farm specializes in crops strawberries and stevia, the latter harvested thrice yearly.

A standout initiative in the region is the coffee cultivation project. Ali Dhafer Al-Harith, who heads the Regional Cooperative Coffee Association, told the SPA that his passion for farming led to experimenting with coffee.

He embarked on the venture in 2022 with 4,000 seedlings. Today, the project has grown to encompass 80 farms with roughly 100,000 coffee trees, aged between three to six years, nurturing varieties including khoulani, adeni, dawairi, tuffahi, and the region-specific taisani.

Coffee planting continues year-round, except during July and August, with flowering in March and harvesting in October, he explained.

The association plays a vital role in supporting coffee farms, offering workshops in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, and handling post-harvest logistics including processing, packaging, and marketing operations.

The ministry’s involvement and support is pivotal for agricultural initiatives in Najran, providing farmers with marketing help, technical advice, and promoting organic farming practices to ensure the production of safe, high-quality food, the SPA reported.

Mureih bin Sharea Al-Shahrani, the ministry’s regional director, explained that the ministry’s support system includes helping famers cultivate local trees and rare plants, as well as “various educational programs and workshops,” through which the ministry aims to “spread awareness and expertise in sustainable agriculture.”