RIYADH: The French embassy marked Breast Cancer Awareness Month by teaming up with the Zahra Breast Cancer Association to organize a special event in Riyadh.
Speaking at the event, the French ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ludovic Pouille, said: “This annual gathering is part of the awareness campaign for the fight against breast cancer, October Rose or Pink October. It is the most common cancer in women worldwide.”
He paid tribute to those who are working to fight the disease, to those who have survived it, and to the doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals who continue to work in Palestine and Ukraine to help save the lives of innocent civilians.
Princess Haifa Al-Faisal, the founder and president of the Zahra association, told the guests: “Actually, I haven’t prepared a speech, I’m just happy to be with you tonight and wish you all the best of health.”
Breast cancer continues to be an important challenge faced by people of all nations.
Dr. Wafa Al-Khayal, a breast cancer specialist in the endocrinology department at King Faisal Hospital in Riyadh, said: “Cancer is a tragedy that affects many women around the world and in my country as well. This is a challenge we must all face together.
“I should note that awareness campaigns conducted by the Zahra (association) since 2003 have led to early detection of a large number of women with breast cancer in Saudi Arabia. We used to meet women with breast cancer, but at a very advanced stage where the chances of recovery are unfortunately minimal.
“I hope that all women learn to listen to their bodies and act immediately by contacting specialists. Don’t neglect any sign.”
Representatives of the Zahra association travel the Kingdom to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer, and to gain the confidence of women, particularly in rural populations where taboos about the disease persist.
Dr. Jean-Marc Nabolt, a specialist with 35 years of experience in treating breast cancer, said that he is helping to develop a simple blood test that can detect the disease.
“I am collaborating with Saudi researchers at King Saud University to create a medical application that uses the movement of electrons, combined with the capabilities of artificial intelligence, to screen for cancer and enable patients and doctors to intervene faster and at lower costs,” he explained.
“This application is being tested in nine countries. The results obtained after four years of research show 98 percent that it is now possible to detect cancer by performing a simple blood test. This application would then be accessible to everyone.”
Hana Asiri, a breast cancer survivor, told the audience the very moving story of her own experience with the disease.
“In 2013, I learned I had breast cancer,” she said. “I was just 38 years old. I was a dynamic woman, a mother of three children, full of energy, enthusiastic, very fulfilled in my personal and also professional life.
“I will never forget when my doctor told me, it’s cancer. During this long period, and after several types of treatment, surgery, eight chemotherapy sessions, 25 radiotherapy sessions and five years of hormone therapy, I would only like to express my gratitude to the Zahra (association) and to Princess Haifa Al-Faisal for supporting me in ensuring and meeting all my needs.”
French embassy, Zahra association mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Riyadh
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French embassy, Zahra association mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Riyadh
- The French ambassador to Saudi Arabia pays tribute to those working to cure the disease, those who survived it, and health professionals who work in war zones
- Dr. Jean-Marc Nabolt, a specialist with 35 years of experience in treating breast cancer, says he is helping to develop a simple blood test to detect the disease
Saudi royal reserve launches 45-day Naylat Camp in Hail
RIYADH: The King Salman bin Abdulaziz Royal Reserve Development Authority has launched Naylat Camp, a 45-day event in the Hail region, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
Located in the breathtaking Naylat area, renowned for its soaring mountains, golden sands, clear skies and tranquility, the camp offers a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Visitors can enjoy camel and horse riding, challenging hiking trails, stargazing, and exploring archaeological and historical sites within the reserve.
The camp features facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience while promoting sustainable ecotourism, according to SPA.
The initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism by showcasing the region’s natural beauty, raising environmental awareness about preserving biodiversity, and supporting the local community through seasonal job opportunities and regional development.
The King Salman reserve covers an area of 130,700 sq. km, spanning four administrative regions: Al-Jawf, Hail, Northern Borders and Tabuk. It features diverse natural habitats, terrains and distinctive geographic formations.
Saudi Arabia embassy resumes diplomatic activities in Afghanistan
- Afghan foreign ministry welcomes Kingdom’s decision to resume diplomatic operations in Kabul
- Saudi Arabia to 'provide all services to the brotherly Afghan people'
RIYADH: The Saudi embassy in the Afghan capital, Kabul, resumed its diplomatic activities on Sunday.
The Afghan foreign ministry on Monday welcomed Saudi Arabia’s decision to resume its diplomatic operations in Kabul, more than three years after Riyadh withdrew its staff during the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.
“We are optimistic about the possibility of strengthening relations and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan through the resumption of these activities,” said Afghan foreign ministry spokesman Zia Ahmad in a statement.
“We will also be able to respond to the problems of Afghans residing in Saudi Arabia.”
Riyadh had posted its decision to resume diplomatic operations in Kabul on social media platform X on Sunday.
“Based on the desire of the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to provide all services to the brotherly Afghan people, it has been decided to resume the activities of the mission of the Kingdom in Kabul starting on December 22,” it said.
Ties between Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan date back to 1932 when the Kingdom became the first Islamic country to provide aid to the Afghan people during their ordeals.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia launched numerous projects in Afghanistan through its humanitarian arm King Salman Relief Center, focusing on aid relief, health, education services, water and food security.
Riyadh also participated in all international donor conferences and called for establishing security and stability in Afghanistan following years of armed conflicts.
Saudi Arabia withdrew its diplomats from Kabul in August 2021 when the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan following the US withdrawal from the country.
However, it said it was resuming consular services in the country in November 2021 and continues to provide aid through KSrelief.
Saudi delegation led by Royal Court advisor meets with Syria’s Al-Sharaa
- Earlier this week, Al-Sharaa praised progress made by Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: A Saudi delegation headed by an advisor from the Royal Court met with the head of the new Syrian administration, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, at the People’s Palace in Syria on Sunday, according to an Al Arabiya report.
Earlier this week, Al-Sharaa praised progress made by Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf countries in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat.
“We admire the development in Gulf countries, particularly Saudi Arabia’s bold plans and vision, and we aspire to achieve similar progress for Syria,” he told the newspaper’s Bissane El-Cheikh during an interview the the Presidential Palace in Damascus.
“There are many opportunities for cooperation, especially in economic and developmental areas, where we can align our goals,” he added.
Shattering expectations: Saudi artist’s journey into glass art
- Aseel Al-Maghlouth breaks glass to break through in the local art scene
RIYADH: Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth is hammering a niche for himself by using glass as his canvas.
He stumbled upon the technique while working on his graduation project in mechanical engineering. “I discovered the potential to employ broken glass to create distinctive artistic designs,” he told Arab News.
The intricate details that appear when glass breaks inspired him to create shapes and visuals and developed a technique that reflected his artistic vision.
Al-Maghlouth had a love for drawing from a young age, but it was not until he discovered his ability to express ideas in unconventional ways that his true passion for art crystallized.
“I have always drawn inspiration from the surrounding nature and the intricate details of daily life,” he said. This connection to his environment, combined with his experiences in exploring artworks, helped shape his unique style.
He finds beauty in the mundane and translates that into his creations, often using glass to convey emotions and narratives that might resonate with viewers.
HIGHLIGHT
By embracing the fragility of glass and transforming it into something beautiful, Saudi artist Aseel Al-Maghlouth challenges perceptions of what art can be.
Al-Maghlouth has gained significant recognition on social media, where his works are widely admired.
This newfound fame has allowed him to sell his works and create custom pieces for clients, including various artists and celebrities. “Creating for such esteemed individuals is an honor, and it motivates me to push my artistic boundaries,” he said.
“The best work I own is the painting of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Frankly, I consider it the most valuable painting I have ever owned, but I refuse to sell it because it was a special gift from me to the crown prince,” he said.
“I have received many offers but I refuse to sell it. As for the rest of my paintings, I prefer not to mention the prices because the value of art for me is not limited to a number. Each painting has its own place and story that distinguishes it.”
One of the greatest challenges Al-Maghlouth faced as an artist was transforming his creations into messages that resonated with his audience. “The biggest challenge was ensuring that my art conveyed a clear idea,” he said.
I want to highlight the beauty of arts in our Saudi culture and connect it with Saudi Vision 2030.
Aseel Al-Maghlouth, Saudi artist
Through experimentation with the nature of glass fractures and the control of his technique, he minimized errors and created pieces that told meaningful stories.
Each strike of the hammer is deliberate, aimed at producing not just a fragment but a narrative that can be interpreted and appreciated by those who view it.
“I want to highlight the beauty of arts in our Saudi culture and connect it with Saudi Vision 2030,” he added, emphasizing the importance of cultural representation in his work.
Al-Maghlouth’s vision for the future is ambitious. He aspires to participate in international exhibitions, representing Saudi Arabia on a global stage. “I dream of organizing a personal exhibition in Riyadh to showcase my works and exchange inspiration with other artists,” he said.
For emerging artists, Al-Maghlouth has simple yet profound advice: “Don’t be afraid of trial and error. Each piece of art reflects a part of you.”
He encourages newcomers to continue developing and learning from every experience, and emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.
His journey is testament to the idea that creativity flourishes in an environment where risks are taken and failures viewed as stepping stones rather than obstacles.
Al-Maghlouth’s work serves as a reminder that art can emerge from the most unexpected materials and methods, encouraging others to explore their creativity without constraints.
By embracing the fragility of glass and transforming it into something beautiful, he challenges perceptions of what art can be.
Al-Maghlouth remains committed to honoring the stories behind each piece, proving that even the most broken fragments can come together to create something truly extraordinary.
Saudi Joint Forces commander meets Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council member for security cooperation talks
- Meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Joint Forces Command and Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council
RIYADH: Lieut. Gen. Fahd bin Hamad Al-Salman, commander of the Joint Forces, met with Faraj Salmeen Al-Bahsani, member of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, at the Joint Forces Command headquarters in Riyadh on Sunday.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the Joint Forces Command and the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Discussions also centered on enhancing the ongoing support provided by Saudi Arabia through the Joint Forces to promote security and stability in Yemen.
During the reception, Al-Bahsani commended the Kingdom’s role in supporting Yemen’s efforts to achieve stability.
He emphasized the importance of continuing strategic cooperation between the two countries to address the challenges currently facing Yemen.
Al-Bahsani thanked the Saudi leadership for their unwavering support across various fields, noting that this collaboration plays a vital role in advancing stability in Yemen and the wider region, SPA reported.
The meeting underscored the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in Yemen as part of its broader efforts to address regional security challenges, SPA added.