JEDDAH: As Saudi leaders prepared on Sunday to welcome the Russian president on a state visit to the Kingdom, Vladimir Putin spoke of his personal ties with King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the areas of cooperation between the two countries and Saudi Arabia’s key role in the region and the world.
In a TV interview with Arab broadcasters, President Putin condemned last month’s attacks on Saudi oil facilities, and said the attempt to disrupt the global oil market had failed.
“Such actions do not bring any positive results to anybody, including perpetrators,” he told Al Arabiya.
“If someone may have wanted to deal a blow to the oil market, they failed. We need to respond to any attempt to destabilize the market. Russia will certainly continue working with Saudi Arabia and other partners and friends in the Arab world to counter any attempts to wreak havoc in the market.”
Putin said Russia could play a positive role in resolving regional disagreements, because of Moscow’s positive relations with the Arab world, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
“We consider Saudi Arabia a friendly nation,” he said. “I have very good relations with both the king and the crown prince. We have been making good headway practically in all fields.”
On Syria, where Russia and Iran have been key allies of Bashar Assad in the eight-year civil war, the Russian president said they could not reach a positive outcome without Saudi cooperation.
“I would like to emphasize the positive role Saudi Arabia has played in resolving the Syrian crisis,” he said. “We are working with Turkey and Iran to resolve the Syrian conflict, but without Saudi Arabia it would not be possible to come to a good solution.”
On the issue of the 2015 agreement to curb Iran’s nuclear development, Putin was asked if Moscow supported a return to negotiations with Tehran to limit its ballistic missile program.
“Most likely it can and should be discussed,” he said.
“The missile program is one thing and the nuclear program is another thing … there is no need to merge one with the other.”
The Russian president said OPEC+ was an initiative introduced by the crown prince to increase their cooperation in the oil sector, and that he was the one who suggested expanding military collaboration between the two countries.
Saudi Arabia was not just a regional energy player but also a global one, and “we care about our cooperation,” Putin said.
The Russian leader described his visit to the Kingdom as the return trip to King Salman’s visit to Moscow in 2017, and said a number of joint economic projects were in development.
“Our Direct Investment Fund and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia have jointly established a $10 billion platform, and $2 billion has already been invested,” he said.
“Work is underway on other projects, and some promising and interesting projects have already been implemented.
“We are fostering a partnership in the trust-based, sensitive area of military and defense cooperation. I am confident that my visit will help to build up the momentum both in developing bilateral relations and enhancing cooperation in international organizations.”
After visiting Saudi Arabia on Monday, the president will travel to the UAE on Tuesday. Following his interview, political analyst and international relations scholar Hamdan Al-Shehri said Russia was well aware of Saudi Arabia’s international profile, particularly in the energy fields.
“Russia’s interest in this area is very important and requires coordination between the two major countries in order to stabilize the world oil markets,” Al-Shehri said.
“The security and stability of the global energy market lead to global security, it affects everything.”
He also noted that there was steady growth in investment between the two countries, “Putin talked about 15 percent growth last year, around 38 percent this year, and I believe projects may increase to reach technology, nuclear energy and so on.”
Al-Shehri said relations with major powers such as Russia were important for the Kingdom, but these countries’ role in confronting Iran was just as important. Although the Russian president had emphasized the positive role Saudi Arabia had played in resolving the Syrian crisis, Al-Shehri said there was more to be done.
“It is a very important statement, and President Putin has addressed it well. It shows the world the difference between Saudi Arabia and Iran,” he said.
Russian President Putin hails KSA’s ‘global role’
Russian President Putin hails KSA’s ‘global role’
- On eve of state visit, Russian president discusses Aramco attacks, Iran and Syria
Embracing the skies: Riyadh aviation show inspires next generation of pilots
- Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation’s first female pilot wants more women to sign up
RIYADH: The Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation was among the top organizations at an aviation show that captivated the Kingdom’s capital with stunning aerobatic displays and an impressive lineup of aircraft.
Sand and Fun 2024, which concluded on Saturday at Thumamah Airport, showcased the Kingdom’s wide-ranging aviation sector.
The federation presented a collection of colorful hot air balloons to demonstrate the experience to adults and younger generations as part of the efforts to raise awareness about hot air ballooning and to inspire a new generation of pilots.
Among the pilots was Afrah Al-Harbi, the first female Saudi hot air balloon pilot to graduate from the federation.
Al-Harbi is on a mission to cultivate a community of female pilots, encouraging women to explore the exhilarating world of hot air ballooning. Her story is an inspiring testament to the opportunities available to women in aviation and the importance of representation in this field.
“At the beginning, I was studying at the university, but the Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation launched a training program to train balloon pilots,” she told Arab News. “Thank God, I registered, and I was accepted. After that, I started my studies to become a balloon captain. The federation covered the entire mission, which is considered a grant from the federation. I obtained the European EASA license, and then I also obtained the Saudi license from the General Authority of Civil Aviation.”
The federation offers structured programs to equip aspiring pilots with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Hot air balloons first appeared in the Kingdom in AlUla as part of the Winter at Tantora Festival in 2018. This event not only showcased the beauty of ballooning, but also laid the groundwork for the establishment of the federation.
The hot air balloon sport is known and famous worldwide. We need a type of it that people can take part in within the Kingdom, especially for global competitions.
Abdulrahman Al-Wahaibi, Saudi hot air balloon pilot
The organization plays a crucial role in promoting balloon culture and raising awareness of the sport.
“We want to show people that hot air ballooning is not only fun, but also safe,” Al-Harbi said, emphasizing the importance of public perception in the growth of the sport.
Her career has included a visit to the Netherlands, where she underwent extensive training.
“My studies in the Netherlands were quite lengthy, but it was an incredibly enriching experience,” she said. “The training included both theoretical subjects and practical sessions to help us obtain our licenses.”
The rigorous training not only prepared Al-Harbi for the technical aspects of flying, but also instilled a deep appreciation of the art of ballooning.
Abdulrahman Al-Wahaibi also spoke about his journey in the world of hot air ballooning, which began was he was a student in Australia.
“I looked at a balloon for the first time in my life and was fascinated by its shape,” he told Arab News. “I had to try the experience, so I did, as a passenger. The experience was beautiful, and I thought we needed this in Saudi Arabia. At that time, Saudi Arabia did not have hot air balloons.”
Al-Wahaibi dedicated himself to bringing the ballooning experience back to Saudi Arabia, sharing it with family, friends, and the community.
This included studying aerospace engineering and breaking records in Australia for the fastest training period. He expressed pride in being part of the first Arab country to take part in international hot air balloon competitions, highlighting the significant strides made by the Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation.
“The hot air balloon sport is known and famous worldwide,” Al-Wahaibi said. “We need a type of it that people can take part in within the Kingdom, especially for global competitions.”
His vision aligns with the federation’s mission to broaden participation and elevate the sport on an international level.
Based in AlUla, the Saudi Hot Air Balloon Federation plans festivals designed to integrate the natural environment and the grandeur of the historic landmarks of ancient civilizations such as Hegra.
The five-day event at Thumamah Airport gave visitors the opportunity to meet pilots, learn about the intricacies of ballooning, and even experience the thrill of a balloon ride.
With inspiring pilots such as Al-Harbi and Al-Wahaibi at the helm, the outlook for hot air ballooning in the years to come looks as bright as the skies adorned with colorful balloons.
Saudi ambassador presents credentials to Cypriot president
- Al-Shabili conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the president
NICOSIA: Saudi Ambassador to Cyprus Fawaz bin Abdulrahman Al-Shabili presented his credentials to the President of Cyprus Nikos Christodoulides at a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in the capital Nicosia, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
Al-Shabili conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the president, as well as their wishes for steady progress and prosperity for Cyprus.
Meanwhile, Saudi Vice Minister of Commerce and CEO of the National Competitiveness Center Eman bint Habbas Al-Mutairi led a Saudi delegation of government officials and business leaders to the UK to bolster bilateral economic relations.
Saudi Arabia to host Qur’an contest in Nepal
- The competition is part of Saudi Arabia’s endeavor to disseminate the teachings of the Qur’an among young Muslims around the world
RIYADH: The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance will hold the second Holy Qur’an Memorization Competition in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, on Dec. 21-22.
More than 400 contestants from various Nepalese states and governorates will participate in the preliminary qualifiers, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
The competition is part of Saudi Arabia’s endeavor to disseminate the teachings of the Qur’an among young Muslims around the world.
The closing ceremony, which will include the presentation of awards to the winners, will be held on Dec. 23 and will be attended by officials from various centers and schools across Nepal.
Busy bees: Asir’s local markets abuzz over Sidr honey season
- Unique taste, aroma make it popular locally, internationally
RIYADH: The Asir region is currently in the midst of the Sidr honey season, with local markets flooded with high-quality honey produced from the nectar of Sidr trees.
The recent heavy rainfall in the region has led to a prolific flowering of Sidr trees, providing ideal conditions for bees to produce abundant and flavorful honey, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Sidr honey, which is renowned for its health benefits, is particularly prized for its antioxidant properties and ability to strengthen the immune system.
The unique taste and aroma of the honey have made it a sought-after commodity, both locally and internationally, the SPA reported.
Beekeepers in Tihama Asir have been busy harvesting the golden nectar, with prices ranging from SR350 to SR500 ($93-133) per kg.
The region’s diverse ecosystem, characterized by its fertile valleys and abundant flora, provides an optimal environment for beekeeping.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture is actively supporting the development of the beekeeping industry. Initiatives such as the beekeeping and honey production development initiative improve practices, protect bee populations, and enhance the quality of honey.
By promoting sustainable beekeeping and preserving the natural habitats of bees, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen its position as a leading producer of high-quality honey while contributing to the global market.
Saudi Reef Forum to focus on rural sustainability
- Al-Ahsa event to promote communities’ role in economic growth
RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture will host the 1st International Forum for Saudi Reef in Al-Ahsa from Dec. 16-18, aiming to strengthen rural communities, and promote their role in driving sustainable development.
Maha Aldhahi, head of the forum’s executive committee, said: “The forum is pivotal in advancing rural development, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Saudi Vision 2030. It will support rural communities, while contributing to global efforts and research on sustainable agriculture.”
Aldhahi said that the forum will unite regional and international experts to address the challenge of rural-to-urban migration, a widespread issue. To counter this, the forum will propose practical solutions to ensure rural areas remain economically viable, vibrant, and sustainable.
Additionally, it will explore innovations in agriculture and rural development, fostering economic growth and social cohesion through job creation and investment promotion, she added.
Aldhahi said that the forum builds on the Saudi Reef Program, recognized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization as the world’s largest development initiative of its kind.
The program has supported over 77,000 agricultural projects, achieved a self-sufficiency rate exceeding 65 percent in vital sectors, and provided upskilling and career opportunities for rural communities.
Ghassan Bakri, secretary-general of the Saudi Reef Program, said: “The program is a model of sustainable growth, addressing food security and job creation while preserving cultural heritage. By hosting this forum, we aim to attract global partnerships and exchange cutting-edge solutions for rural empowerment.”
Bakri added that the forum will feature dynamic discussions on key topics, including sustainable agricultural practices, rural entrepreneurship, and the role of modern technology in agriculture.
The three-day event will also include an exhibition showcasing unique rural practices, handicrafts, and the work of local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. It will highlight how traditional techniques integrate with modern innovations to create sustainable livelihoods.
