RIYADH: Relations between Saudi Arabia and Nepal are poised for strong growth after the opening of the Saudi Embassy in Katmandu and the renewed Saudi pledge to extend aid and loan facilities for infrastructure projects in the south Asian country.
“Nepal is also currently studying the clauses of a draft agreement to be signed with the Kingdom, which will facilitate deployment of Nepalese domestic workers in this country,” said Mahendra Prasad Singh Rajput, newly appointed Nepalese ambassador on Saturday.
Rajput, who gave an overview of the progressively growing Saudi-Nepalese relations, said that “the state-owned Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) has pledged to extend a SR30 million loan facility for infrastructure projects in Nepal.”
“This was conveyed to me during my meeting with top SFD officials here recently,” said the envoy. He said that “we will submit some project proposals to SFD shortly in this regard.”
Nepal has previously acquired aid and loan support from the Kingdom for several infrastructure projects including hydroelectric projects such as the Marsyangdi one. There has also been extensive support from the SFD of the East-West Highway of Nepal project as well as its assistance in Bagmati I & II Irrigation Project in that country.
Asked about the possible date of signing of the bilateral agreement, which will allow export of domestic manpower including housemaids to Saudi Arabia, Rajput said that “Nepal is studying the text of the proposed labor agreement with an aim to safeguard the interests of its workers … we hope to proceed further as Saudi Arabia today is the top labor destination for our country.”
“Our focus is how to protect our workers,” said the diplomat, while referring to a special Nepalese panel headed by former Nepal Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Udaya Raj Pandey that is studying the draft agreement. He noted that about 400,000 Nepalese workers other than domestic aides have been deployed in the Kingdom so far.
He said that “the opening of the Saudi embassy in Katmandu has given a new boost to Saudi-Nepal relations.”
The opening of the Saudi embassy has also facilitated the visits of Nepalese Muslims, who have been coming to the Kingdom for Hajj and Umrah every year. “On the top of this, now a strong and stable government in Katmandu has given opportunity for us to work more closely with the Kingdom to boost commercial links,” he said.
Ambassador Rajput said that Nepal Finance Minister Yubaraj Khatiwada had presented a federal budget of $13 billion for the fiscal 2018-19 in the joint session of the House of Representatives and National Assembly of Nepal this week. The main focus of the Nepal state budget was on transforming the production sector and development of physical infrastructure.
Nepal and Saudi Arabia have forged closer ties since they established diplomatic relations on March 15, 1977.
Economic cooperation between the two countries began in 1978 when Nepal opened its embassy in Jeddah. Trade, commerce and promotion of tourism are yet to be explored and tapped. Tourism is one of the key potential areas in the development of Nepal-Saudi relations.
Saudi-Nepal ties to trigger strong growth
Saudi-Nepal ties to trigger strong growth
- Nepal has previously acquired aid and loan support from the Kingdom for several infrastructure projects
- About 400,000 Nepalese workers other than domestic aides have been deployed in the Kingdom so far
Saudi Arabia welcomes ceasefire in Lebanon
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's ministry of foreign affairs expressed said the Kingdom welcomed the ceasefire in Lebanon in a statement posted on X on Wednesday.
#بيان | تعرب وزارة الخارجية عن ترحيب المملكة العربية السعودية بوقف إطلاق النار في لبنان، وتثمن المملكة جميع الجهود الدولية المبذولة في هذا الشأن pic.twitter.com/WMNFlh0EsT
— وزارة الخارجية (@KSAMOFA) November 27, 2024
The Kingdom expressed appreciation for all international efforts made for the ceasefire, adding that it hoped it would lead to the implementation of Security Council Resolution (1701) and the preservation of Lebanon's sovereignty, security and stability and the return of the displaced to their homes in safety and security.
Resolution 1701 calls for a full cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Fam Foods, Kobe Beef Association partner to launch halal-certified beef in Saudi Arabia
- As part of the event, Fam Foods announced the upcoming opening of Hocho, a premium Kobe and wagyu-based restaurant set to launch in Via Riyadh
RIYADH: The introduction of halal-certified Kobe beef to the Saudi market was marked by an exclusive evening at the residence of Morino Yasunari, the Japanese ambassador to Saudi Arabia.
The event was hosted by Fam Foods, the only authorized reseller in the Kingdom, in collaboration with the Kobe Beef Association and highlighted the deepening cultural and culinary partnership between Japan and Saudi Arabia.
Guests enjoyed a unique atmosphere that blended heritage and contemporary celebration. They were welcomed with traditional Saudi coffee, a gesture reflecting the nations’ shared value of hospitality, while the decor also combined their traditions.
They were also treated to a culinary journey featuring authentic Japanese techniques, including teppanyaki preparations demonstrating the artistry and meticulous craftsmanship behind Kobe beef. The renowned Kimono Butcher captivated the audience with a masterful demonstration of beef cutting, symbolizing the precision and dedication synonymous with Japanese culinary heritage.
Princess Muneera Al Rasheed, chairwoman of Fam Foods, said during her address: “This evening celebrates more than just the introduction of halal-certified Kobe beef; it embodies the rich culinary and cultural partnership between Japan and Saudi Arabia. At Fam Foods, we are committed to innovating while safekeeping tradition — together, we are transforming premium dining experiences in the Kingdom.”
Shinnosuke Murakami, president of the Sanda Meat Center Export Expansion Consortium which oversees the export of Kobe from Japan, said: “Kobe beef represents the pinnacle of Japanese wagyu beef, renowned worldwide for its exceptional flavor, rich aroma and unparalleled tenderness.
“We are deeply grateful to His Royal Highness Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Her Highness Princess Muneera Al Rasheed, and the Fam Foods team for their ongoing support in this partnership and providing us the opportunity to share this wonderful delicacy with the people of Saudi Arabia and the Arab world.”
Traditional performances also added depth to the evening, connecting attendees to the cultural roots of Japan, with the serene melodies of a koto performance and the elegance of a flute recital bringing the event to life.
As part of the event, Fam Foods announced the upcoming opening of Hocho, a premium Kobe and wagyu-based restaurant set to launch in Via Riyadh. The venture is set to redefine Japanese dining in Saudi Arabia, offering an elevated culinary experience that brings the artistry of Japanese beef to the forefront.
Emir of Kuwait sends King Salman GCC Summit letter
- Message delivered to minister during meeting in Riyadh
RIYADH: King Salman has received a letter from the Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah inviting him to the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit.
The message was delivered to Minister of State Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd during a meeting in Riyadh on Tuesday with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya.
The two sides held cordial talks and discussed issues of common interest.
The 45th GCC Summit takes place in Kuwait on Sunday.
King Salman asks people of Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain
RIYADH: King Salman called on Muslims in Saudi Arabia to pray on Thursday for rain, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
“Everyone who is able should be keen to perform the prayer, in accordance with the tradition of Prophet Muhammad,” the Royal Court said.
Muslims are often asked to pray for rainfall in times of drought or other water shortages.
Global Harmony event concludes with celebration of Egyptian culture in Riyadh
- Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture
RIYADH: The Global Harmony initiative concludes its third edition with a week-long celebration of Egyptian music, art and tradition in Suwaidi Park as part of Riyadh Season.
Running from Nov. 24-30 and organized by the Ministry of Media, the event invites visitors to experience Egypt’s rich heritage through a range of cultural activities.
Speaking to Arab News, Egyptian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Tarek El-Meligy highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. “The Egyptian community is the most harmonious, coexistent and understanding in a positive way within Saudi society,” he said.
“If you ask any Egyptian which country they would like to live in after Egypt, they will say Saudi Arabia.”
Sarry Shaaban, an executive and consultant at the General Entertainment Authority, said: “We are talking about millions of visitors, both residents and Saudis, entering the park. Whether I’m a resident, a Saudi or from a country hosting the event, it provides an opportunity for residents to learn about your culture, colors, explore its arts, food, crafts, and traditional industries.”
Live music and dance performances displaying Egypt’s cultural traditions, with the rhythm of drums and flutes and performers in traditional costumes, have brought the life and spirit of Cairo’s streets to Riyadh.
A separate bazaar area has been set up featuring Egyptian cuisine, traditional clothing and handcrafted items.
“An event like this carries positive messages and highlights something we strive to emphasize every day, that we are one people, united by love and affection,” said El-Meligy.
Egyptian Sameh Nabil emphasized the feel of unity: “This initiative brought us closer together as Egyptians, and with Saudis here, I feel like we are brothers. I always feel like we are not expatriates.”
And visitor Khaled Zahir said: “This event reflects the love, connection and affection between Egyptians living in the Kingdom and Saudis.”
Egyptians make up 11 percent of Saudi Arabia’s population, according to the Saudi Census, meaning such exhibitions are important in promoting mutual respect and harmony.
El-Meligy said Saudi Arabia hosted the largest Egyptian expatriate community abroad, with remittances from those in the Kingdom forming a significant part of their home nation’s income.
“In recent months, remittances from Egyptians abroad have increased substantially, thanks to the facilities between the two countries and the confidence in both the Saudi and Egyptian economies,” he added.
Saudi Arabia and Egypt continue to strengthen their political relationship through agreements in trade, tourism, energy and culture. In his October visit to Cairo, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to discuss investment opportunities and the establishment of a supreme coordination council to deepen bilateral relations.
Trade between Saudi Arabia and Egypt saw a 35.16 percent annual increase in the first half of 2024, according to the General Authority of Statistics. The increase was driven by a 73.44 percent surge in Saudi imports from Egypt, totaling $4.18 billion.
Egypt has also shown a growing interest in investing in Saudi Arabia, with a 71 percent rise in licenses granted to Egyptian firms in the second quarter of 2024.
The festival, which began in October, highlights the lives, contributions and cultural integration of its residents. So far, it has celebrated cultures including Indian heritage and moving through Philippine, Indonesian, Pakistani, Yemeni, Sudanese, Bangladeshi, Jordanian, Lebanese and Syrian traditions.
