Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah readies itself to welcome Arab League summit delegates

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Arab flags fly across Jeddah for the summit. (AN photo by Abdullah Al-Faleh)
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Arab flags fly across Jeddah for the summit. (AN photo by Abdullah Al-Faleh)
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Arab flags fly across Jeddah for the summit. (AN photo by Abdullah Al-Faleh)
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Arab flags fly across Jeddah for the summit. (AN photo by Abdullah Al-Faleh)
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Arab flags fly across Jeddah for the summit. (AN photo by Abdullah Al-Faleh)
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Updated 21 May 2023
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Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah readies itself to welcome Arab League summit delegates

  • Hotels and roundabouts have been decorated with the flags of the pan-Arab group’s constituent nations
  • Security has been tightened to ensure the safety of high-level delegations and the smooth flow of traffic

JEDDAH: They have been applying the finishing touches in Jeddah to ensure the high-level delegations invited to the upcoming Arab League summit on Friday receive the warmest of welcomes.

The flags of all countries attending can be seen across the city and even more tress have been planted as part of Saudi Arabia’s green drive.

One of the most notable views at this year’s summit is that of the Syrian national flag fluttering among the flags of other countries.




Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan (R) and Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit at the Arab Foreign Ministers Preparatory Meeting ahead of the 32nd Arab League Summit in Jeddah on May 17, 2023. (SPA)

Abdulrahman Rammal, a Saudi journalist, said: “It’s so amazing to see the Syrian flag on the streets of Jeddah as it represents a good change and, hopefully, the summit re-establishes the relationship between the Kingdom and Syria.”

Although Rammal does not support the Syrian regime, he said he believed that the country’s public, through renewed ties, might improve their living conditions and be reunited with relatives.

Rima Ibrahim, a Syrian living in Jeddah, said: “Witnessing the Syrian flag and its participation in the summit is great. As a Syrian living in Saudi Arabia, re-establishing the relationships between both countries means that we can visit the Syrian Embassy and renew our passports easily, which was not the case during the crisis. Besides, now I can visit my family in Syria and go to my country through direct flights.”

Jordanian citizens are also excited to see their country’s presence at the summit and its work to end the crisis in Syria and bring Damascus back into the Arab fold.

Jeddah is under high security alert, ensuring the safety of high-level delegations and the smooth conduct of traffic from highways to the summit.




Arab League foreign ministers attend a preparatory meeting in Jeddah on May 17, 2023 ahead of the 32nd Arab League Summit. (SPA)

Hotels and roundabouts have also been decorated with Arab flags for Friday’s event. The Ritz Carlton has taken special measures as part of its preparations. With the hotel fully booked out for the summit, guests can expect a luxury experience.

Through the summit, Saudi Arabia hopes to reinvigorate Arab ties and improve communication between countries. Important foreign policy topics are set to be at the center of discussion on Friday.

 


Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy

Updated 07 November 2024
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Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy

RIYADH: As he prepares to leave Saudi Arabia, Japan’s ambassador to the Kingdom, Iwai Fumio, affectionately known as “Abu Kuji” among his Saudi friends, reflects on the sweeping transformations he witnessed during his tenure.

“Saudi Arabia feels like a second home,” he said.

“The connection I feel to this country and its people is truly unique,” Iwai added.

Under the ambitious Vision 2030 framework, he observed the Kingdom evolving at an unprecedented pace, blending progress with the preservation of its cultural legacy. 

“Vision 2030 isn’t just about change — it’s a complete reimagining of what Saudi Arabia can be,” he said, emphasizing how the initiative reshaped the Kingdom’s economy and expanded its influence.

As Saudi Arabia emerged as a regional hub, attracting investment and establishing global partnerships, the ambassador noted the Kingdom’s growing role on the world stage.

From the bustling streets of Riyadh to the awe-inspiring landscapes of AlUla and the towering peaks of Asir, he has seen firsthand the beauty and spirit of a nation embracing change while honoring its heritage.

“Each place tells a story of resilience and pride,” he said, noting how the Kingdom’s diverse regions reflect the harmony of tradition and progress.

Iwai spoke with deep appreciation of the hospitality he encountered throughout his time in Saudi Arabia. “The warmth here is unmatched,” he said, recalling how Saudis welcomed him not just as a diplomat but as part of their extended community. 

The title “Abu Kuji” itself, bestowed upon him by his Saudi friends, symbolizes a personal connection and affection that goes beyond formal diplomacy.

“There is a sincerity here, a tradition of openness and generosity that is incredibly touching,” he remarked. “It’s rare to find such genuine warmth in the world.”

The ambassador also praised the Arab News Japanese edition, a key initiative fostering closer ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

He acknowledged the publication’s vital role in promoting mutual understanding, enabling Japanese readers to appreciate the breadth and depth of Saudi Arabia’s transformation. 

“Arab News Japan has allowed people back home to witness this journey of growth and ambition,” he said. “It has been instrumental in bridging our cultures and deepening the friendship between our nations.”

Reflecting on his years in Saudi Arabia, he expressed admiration for the rapid advancements in technology, infrastructure and economic diversification under Vision 2030.

From newly developed hotels and infrastructure projects to the ease of new digital visa services, he noted the strides the Kingdom has made to attract international businesses and tourists alike.

“These developments show Saudi Arabia’s readiness to welcome the world,” he said.

The ambassador highlighted how Japan, with its experience and technological expertise, is well positioned to collaborate with Saudi Arabia on these fronts.

Yet beyond the visible changes, it is the people and their shared pride in tradition that left the most indelible mark on him. From experiencing the energy of Saudi cities to the tranquil beauty of its historical sites, the ambassador described his journey through the Kingdom as transformative on a personal level.

“It’s not just the landscapes or the cities,” he said, “but the people, their warmth, their traditions — these are the true treasures of Saudi Arabia.”

As he bid farewell, Iwai voiced optimism for a future of strengthened collaboration, particularly in fields such as energy, technology, and cultural exchange, where Japan’s expertise aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goals under Vision 2030.

He leaves with a sense of gratitude and hope, confident that the friendship between Saudi Arabia and Japan will continue to deepen.

Reflecting on his next chapter, the ambassador shared his excitement for his upcoming assignment in Egypt, a country he believes will offer new opportunities to deepen Japan’s ties in the region.

“Each country has its unique story and path, and I am grateful for the opportunity to carry forward the spirit of partnership I’ve cherished here in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

“Saudi Arabia will always hold a special place in my heart,” he added, “for the incredible transformations I witnessed, but most of all, for the friendships and warmth of its people, who welcomed me like family.”


Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor

Updated 07 November 2024
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Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor

  • Discussions focused on the strong relations between their two nations and explored ways in which these could be further enhanced

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met with the French president’s advisor for the Middle East and North Africa region, Anne-Claire Legendre, this week.

Discussions focused on the strong relations between their two nations and explored ways in which these could be further enhanced, reported Saudi Press Agency.

They also reviewed regional issues, with a particular focus on Gaza and Lebanon and ongoing efforts to address the issues there.


KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership

Updated 07 November 2024
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KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership

  • ⁠KSrelief implement sanitation project in Yemen’s Marib governorate

RIYADH: The advisor to the Royal Court and supervisor general of the Kingdom’s aid agency, KSrelief, met with the Palestinian education minister this week to discuss cooperation on educational projects and programs for schools and universities.

Dr Abdullah Al-Rabeeah and Amjad Barham also talked about ways in which research collaboration between Saudi and Palestinian higher education institutes could be enhanced, reported Saudi Press Agency.

The Palestinian minister also expressed his gratitude to the Saudi government for the Kingdom’s ongoing support for his people.

Meanwhile, KSrelief has implemented a project to improve sanitation services for internally displaced persons and the host community in Yemen’s Marib governorate, in partnership with the UN International Organization for Migration.

The project entails the construction of 200 new latrines and rehabilitation of 600 sewage pits and will directly benefit 47,598 individuals facing tough living conditions.


KSrelief delivers food and dates in Yemen, Chad

Updated 07 November 2024
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KSrelief delivers food and dates in Yemen, Chad

  • This assistance is part of the relief and humanitarian efforts provided by Saudi Arabia, represented by KSrelief

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has been distributing food and dates to thousands of people in Yemen and Chad, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Volunteers distributed 3,000 cartons of dates to displaced people in Yemen’s Al-Jawf governorate, benefiting 18,000 individuals, the SPA reported on Wednesday.

In Chad this week, as a part of its Food Security Support Project, KSrelief distributed 1,200 food parcels in the Batha region, benefiting 7,200 vulnerable people.


Saudi Arabia’s aid arrives in northern Gaza to assist Palestinians

Updated 07 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s aid arrives in northern Gaza to assist Palestinians

  • Wednesday’s delivery of essential food and other supplies is a part of KSrelief’s ongoing campaign to provide support for Palestinians

RIYADH: Several trucks with aid, provided by Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian agency KSrelief, have arrived in the northern Gaza Strip via Jordan.

Wednesday’s delivery of essential food and other supplies is a part of KSrelief’s ongoing campaign to provide support for Palestinians, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The northern Gaza Strip is currently facing severe challenges, exacerbated by the ongoing war and the closure of border crossings, making this aid critical to helping the population cope with the crisis. (SPA)

The aid was scheduled to be distributed through the Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, which serves as the executive partner of KSrelief in the area.

The campaign to assist Palestinians, initiated by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has raised over $186.3 million from over 2 million donors.

The northern Gaza Strip is currently facing severe challenges because of Israel’s ongoing war on the Palestinians, which includes the closure of border crossings.