Bangladesh-Saudi friendship has endured vicissitude of time

Updated 25 March 2016
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Bangladesh-Saudi friendship has endured vicissitude of time

On the auspicious occasion of the 45th Anniversary of the Independence and National Day of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, I convey my heartfelt congratulations and warm greetings to our respected members of Bangladesh community living in Saudi Arabia.
This great day as we celebrate, I pay my deep respect to the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who led the nation to achieve Independence through a glorious War of Liberation in 1971.
I salute and pay my deep homage to all the valiant freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifices and presented us the independent Bangladesh.
My respect is to the martyrs of Liberation War and all those millions of people who withstood all the sufferings yet supported the War of Liberation.

I would like to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two holy Mosques King Salman for his generous support for Bangladesh including re-opening of the Kingdom’s labor market for Bangladeshi workforce.
The extraordinary kindness and generosity of King Salman and the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh is always reverenced by the people and the government of Bangladesh.
We deeply appreciate the government and the people of Saudi Arabia for facilitating the Haj and Umrah pilgrimage to a significant number of our citizens every year.
After birth of a nation over last 45 years, Bangladesh has achieved a significant progress in all areas of social and economic indicators.
Its recent achievements in social development and macro-management continue to bring laurels and appreciation from the global community.
The present government of Bangladesh under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been working hard to build a digital Bangladesh and to achieve middle income country status through the “Vision by 2021” and a developed country with the “Vision 2041”. 
The prime minister has extended full support toward Saudi Arabia with its role toward Yemen and formation of the alliance to combat terrorism and extremism.
Bangladesh, one of the top troops contributing countries for UN peace keeping operations around the globe, has been playing an active role in peace building and promotion of democracy in the war torn countries for the international order for protection and promotion of the interest of all nations.
Bangladesh’s enlightened and forward looking foreign policy had made the country an important role player in the UN, NAM, OIC, Commonwealth and other international and regional organizations.
Bangladesh always attaches great importance on its ties with the government and people of Saudi Arabia.
These excellent relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia may be attributed to the fact that both countries share many common perspectives, values and commitments.
Over the last 40 years, Bangladesh-Saudi friendship has not only endured the vicissitude of time, but also has been consolidated and prospered.
The relations have reached to new height in recent time following the fruitful engagements between relevant Ministers including Foreign Ministers of the two countries in many areas such as labor market expansion, ICT cooperation, trade and economic cooperation and fruitful political consultations between the two countries.
We hope to build up our relations on the achievements of these recent productive engagements to set up a future of even closer co-operation and understanding both at the bilateral and multilateral levels between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.
We would like to see the peoples of both countries to herald a defining moment of raising our relationship to a new height in the coming days.
On this day I would urge upon all the members of Bangladesh community to continue their valuable support to accelerate the socio-economic developments of our beloved motherland and to further strengthen the excellent relationship that exists between our two brotherly countries.
Joi Bangla.
Joi Bangabandhu.
 
Golam Moshi
Ambassador of Bangladesh


SFD funds specialized hospital in Zambia with $135m

Updated 27 December 2024
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SFD funds specialized hospital in Zambia with $135m

  • The project seeks to establish a specialized gynecological and pediatric hospital with 800 medical beds

RIYADH: The Saudi Fund for Development has signed an additional development loan agreement worth $35 million for the construction of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Specialized Hospital in Zambia, raising the total SDF funding for the hospital to $135 million.

The agreement was signed by SFD CEO Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad and Minister of Finance and National Planning of the Republic of Zambia Situmbeko Musokotwane in a ceremony attended by Saudi Ambassador to Zambia Ali Al-Qahtani, the Saudi Press Agency reported Friday.

The project seeks to establish a specialized gynecological and pediatric hospital with 800 medical beds in an area of over 200,000 square meters.

The facility will contribute to enhancing specialized healthcare, providing healthcare training, and improving the standards of health services in Zambia, ultimately alleviating financial pressures on beneficiaries.

Al-Marshad, accompanied by Musokotwane and Al-Qahtani, visited the hospital project site to observe the ongoing construction.

Since 1978, the SFD has supported Zambia with over $170 million in financing for various development projects and programs across essential sectors, aimed at fostering social growth and economic prosperity.

The SFD was established to advance sustainable economic development in the world’s least developed countries by leveraging the Kingdom’s resources to provide financial, technical and human support to meet the needs of its partners.


Kuwait’s crown prince meets foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations

Updated 27 December 2024
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Kuwait’s crown prince meets foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia and other GCC nations

  • Meeting takes place on sidelines of 46th extraordinary meeting of GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers discuss developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza

RIYADH: The crown prince of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, met the Saudi minister of foreign affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, and the foreign ministers of other Gulf Cooperation Council member states at Bayan Palace in Kuwait City on Thursday

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 46th extraordinary meeting of the GCC’s Ministerial Council, during which ministers and other officials discussed the latest developments in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.

They stressed the need to uphold Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the aftermath of the fall of President Bashar Assad’s regime this month, and condemned Israeli authorities for their attacks against Syria and Lebanon.

They also affirmed the GCC’s support for the Palestinian people and called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.


Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith 

Updated 27 December 2024
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Makkah’s cultural gem offers journey through history and faith 

  • Hira Cultural District has books, gifts and special cuisine
  • ‘Revelation Exhibition’ focuses on messages to prophets 

MAKKAH: As winter arrives, the Hira Cultural District in Makkah, a landmark destination combining history, knowledge and services for tourists, has emerged as a hub for residents and visitors seeking cultural and recreational experiences. 

At the heart of the district lies the “Revelation Exhibition,” which vividly narrates the story of divine messages to the prophets. It features a section focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad and the significance of Hira Mountain. 

Using cutting-edge audiovisual technology, the exhibition is an immersive and enriching journey through Islamic history, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The district’s cultural library offers a treasure trove of information on the history of Makkah and Madinah, the life of the prophet, and the legacy of Hira Mountain and its surrounding areas.

This knowledge can be explored through books, scientific references, and interactive displays. 

Beyond its historical and educational appeal, the cultural district constitutes a vibrant destination for leisure and commerce.

Restaurants and cafes serve a mix of local dishes inspired by Makkah’s heritage alongside international cuisine, while shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the district's identity. 

The Saudi Coffee Museum adds a distinctive flavor to the experience. Here guests can savor traditional Saudi coffee while learning about its regional variations and preparation methods. 

For those seeking adventure, the district provides access to the Cave of Hira via a specially paved pathway, allowing visitors to connect with the site’s spiritual and historical significance. 

A visitors’ center provides comprehensive information on the district’s features, services and cultural offerings.


Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah

Updated 27 December 2024
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Saudi attorney general holds talks with Turkish counterpart in Makkah

MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud bin Abdullah Al-Mujib, praised the strong relationship between the Kingdom and Turkiye as he welcomed a delegation led by his Turkish counterpart, Muhsin Senturk, to Makkah on Thursday.

The officials discussed legal collaborations between their nations and affirmed their desire to enhance judicial cooperation to serve common interests, the Saudi Press Agency reported.


Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season

Updated 27 December 2024
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Indulge in the magical wizarding World of Harry Potter at Riyadh Season

  • The pop-up experience offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles

RIYADH: Harry Potter: A Riyadh Season Adventure is one of the many enthralling and enchanting experiences on offer at Riyadh Season this year.

The pop-up experience, brought to life by Warner Bros., offers fans of all ages an immersive opportunity to step into the magical universe of witches, wizards and muggles.

Set in the vibrant Boulevard City, the area is designed to showcase some of the most iconic locations from the beloved film series, such as Hogwarts and others.

Interactive technology plays a significant role in the experience. Guests can take part in a Great Hall Sorting Experience, where they find out which Hogwarts house they belong to, and engage in Quidditch activities, as well as practice their Quaffle skills on the pitch.

There is also a zone where visitors can try wands and cast magical words they learned from the film series, like “Expecto Patronum.”

For those looking to take a piece of the magic home, the Wizarding World Shops offer exclusive merchandise, ranging from wands to house scarves, and the Three Broomsticks Food Hall offers refreshing drinks, cupcakes and other desserts.

Costumes are a big part of the fun experience, and there is a dedicated area for shopping, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect outfit to enhance their visit.

Maram Al-Ruwaili, a passionate fan dressed as a Slytherin, shared her excitement: “I’ve been a Potterhead since 2003. Now at 31, I still consider myself a big fan. I’ve tried one Harry Potter experience before, but not in Saudi Arabia.

“This time, sitting in the Great Hall, surrounded by sound effects from the films, made it feel like we were true Hogwarts students. The atmosphere, especially with the Dementors and Christmas sounds, was magical.”

The event has attracted a diverse crowd, including international visitors.

Nanditha Krishnakumar, an enthusiastic attendee from India, expressed her love for the experience: “I’ve adored Harry Potter since childhood, and this is truly amazing. It feels so lifelike and brings my dreams to life. I love Slytherin; it might seem like an evil house, but it’s one of my favorites. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.”

Aisleen de Asis, a nurse who has lived in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade, shared her perspective: “Harry Potter is a significant part of my childhood. I heard about this experience from friends and colleagues who enjoyed it, and I had to check it out myself. Being here brings back so many nostalgic memories.”

The Harry Potter experience at Riyadh Season also celebrates community and shared passion.

Fans from various backgrounds are coming together to relive the magic of their childhood, creating connections through their love for the series.

The excitement is palpable, as visitors share their stories, dress up as their favorite characters, and take part in the interactive activities that bring the magic of the books and films to life.

Whether you are a longtime fan or new to the series, the magical experience is not to be missed.