Egypt Rejects European Parliament’s Statement on Presidential Electionshttps://english.aawsat.com/4589776-egypt-rejects-european-parliament%E2%80%99s-statement-presidential-elections
Egypt Rejects European Parliament’s Statement on Presidential Elections
Egypt Rejects European Parliament’s Statement on Presidential Elections
Egyptian Parliament (Facebook)
The Egyptian Parliament on Friday rejected a European Parliament statement on the country’s upcoming presidential elections, saying it lacks credibility and neutrality.
On Thursday, the European Parliament called in a report for a “review” of the EU’s relations with Egypt. It also urged Egyptian authorities to hold “credible, free and fair elections” and stop “harassing peaceful opposition figures such as aspiring presidential candidates.”
The report sparked a wave of widespread criticism in Egypt, particularly from deputies and politicians who said the statement is based on false information.
Egypt is gearing up for its presidential elections late this year. Voting in Egypt will take place from December 10 to December 12, with Egyptians abroad casting their votes from December 1 to December 3.
In a statement issued Friday, the Egyptian Parliament said the EU’s report lacks objectivity and reveals a predisposition to issue premature judgments about the electoral process.
It then called on the European Parliament to focus its efforts on European affairs, where violations of human rights and freedoms are documented in various reports.
Several Egyptian party leaders, in addition to political and legal officials, rejected the Union’s interference in Egypt’s internal affairs.
Nagi Al-Shihabi, head of the Democratic Generation Party (al-Geel al-Dimuqrati), told Asharq Al-Awsat that the European Parliament statement contains false information aimed at misleading global public opinion, affirming that the Parliament exceeded its limits and powers and interfered in Egyptian affairs.
He affirmed that Egypt’s elections are run by an independent body, the National Electoral Commission, and in accordance with the law, the Constitution and international standards.
Shihabi said it is normal that the European statement triggered wide criticisms in Egypt because Egyptian political parties and civil society are participating in the national dialogue, called for by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, without exclusion.
Meanwhile, Tarek Fahmy, a political science professor at Cairo University, said the timing of the European Parliament is suspicious because it coincides with the announcement of Sisi's candidacy for a new term.
The statement aims to intervene in local affairs and try to spark fears among Egyptian authorities, he said, adding that the statement also aims to change the course of the electoral process.
He then rejected the European Parliament’s “unacceptable interventions” in Egypt’s internal affairs and said it was still early to comment on the elections.
Fahmy then told Asharq Al-Awsat that the European Parliament statement came one-day following demands by lobbyists in Washington and rights groups that US lawmakers withhold a further $235 million in military aid to Egypt.
“I believe there are some European-US arrangements to intervene in Egyptian affairs in one way or another,” he said.
Ukrainian Official to Asharq Al-Awsat: Russia’s Demands to Annex Territory are a Red Linehttps://english.aawsat.com/interviews/5243411-ukrainian-official-asharq-al-awsat-russia%E2%80%99s-demands-annex-territory-are-red-line
Ukrainian Official to Asharq Al-Awsat: Russia’s Demands to Annex Territory are a Red Line
Ukrainian soldiers at an undisclosed location in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region on January 30, 2026 (AFP)
A senior Ukrainian official said Kyiv is concentrating its negotiating efforts with Russia on achieving an unconditional ceasefire, while stressing the need for full international security guarantees to ensure that any future attack on Ukraine does not recur. He underscored that Russia’s demands to annex Ukrainian territory represent a red line.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia Anatolii Petrenko reaffirmed his country’s commitment to peace, saying: “We take every opportunity to engage in diplomatic negotiations with Russia to deescalate the ongoing military standoff as a key prerequisite for inclusive political solution in order to achieve just and lasting peace.”
He added that “real breakthrough in current negotiations would be to achieve the unconditional ceasefire.” He also stressed the urgency of making progress on the return of abducted Ukrainian children and prisoners of war, noting that “If promptly agreed these would pave the way for much broader and deeper dialogue between Ukraine and Russia potentially leading to a comprehensive political decision.”
Anatolii Petrenko, Ukraine’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia (Embassy of Ukraine in Riyadh)
Petrenko said that, in this complex process, Ukraine is supported by its international partners who stand firmly on the principles of international law, Ukraine’s sovereignty, and its territorial integrity. He said: “We are convinced that unconditional ceasefire would be top testament of Russia’s genuine readiness for lasting peace.”
At the same time, he expressed regret that “daily realities of Russian strikes against Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure against the backdrop of ongoing diplomatic efforts reflect fundamental gap we are to bridge using every compelling leverage in possession of international community.”
Petrenko went on to stress that “the issue of Russia’s demands for territorial annexation are illegitimate and represent our red line in accordance with Ukraine’s Constitution.” He added that “It cannot be considered as a matter of a technical compromise for the sake of ongoing negotiations with Russia,” noting that “Ukraine’s delegation has a clear mandate to pursue further diplomatic negotiations strictly based on our national interests.”
The American Role
Petrenko described the US role in any political settlement as central, saying: “The United States’ role remains central. This is our strategic partner, and we rely on our partnership to achieve a strategic solution for Ukraine’s sovereignty.”
He said this partnership includes “steadfast support to ongoing diplomatic negotiations with Russia, vital commitment to sustained combat readiness of our defense forces with tangible security guarantees and clear common vision for economic recovery of Ukraine once the war is terminated.”
Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy during at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 22 (Reuters)
Petrenko stressed that “United States’ leadership in maintaining world security should deliver an effective political solution to stop war against Ukraine thus undoubtedly generating global stability much needed across all continents and regions.”
On another front, he said Ukraine aspires to join the European Union in the foreseeable future, saying: “Ukraine has always been a part of Europe.” He added: “Our national ambition is to become a new member of the European Union in foreseeable future.”
He said “the European Union is our strongest partner to maintain macro-economic stability, develop Ukraine’s defense industry and contribute to future security guarantees,” noting that “our joint approach to ending the war has always been unified – politically, economically and militarily.”
Petrenko added that “European Union has to be part of diplomatic negotiations for peace as we all understand the European security remains undivided and Ukraine is the cornerstone of that security.”
Russia’s Exhaustion
Petrenko spoke about Russian losses since the war began on 24 February 2022, saying: “Since 24 February 2022, Russia has lost around 1.3 mln personnel, with 11,654 tanks, 24,013 armored vehicles, 435 aircraft and 28 warships destroyed.” He said “These figures illustrate not only a tragic human toll but also a profound degradation of Russia’s warfighting capacity.”
On the economic front, he noted: “Russia’s wartime economy shows clear signs of running aground,” stressing that “GDP growth has slowed to near stagnation at around 1% in 2025 and projected to remain minimal in 2026 due to sanctions, declining oil and gas revenues and rising structural imbalances.” He added: “Annual inflation reached around 7% with key interest rate at 16%, the budget is expected to run a noticeable deficit.”
Petrenko said: “War brings no prosperity to any nation in the world.” He added that “Russia should take this very seriously and reverse the aggression into civilized neighborly relationship with Ukraine as a responsible member of the United Nations and its Security Council.”
Saudi–Ukrainian Partnership
On relations with Saudi Arabia, Petrenko said: “Ukraine and Saudi Arabia experience a dynamic phase of consistent political and economic engagement.”
He said: “Last year President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy paid an official visit to Saudi Arabia which resulted in the adoption of a Joint Statement showcasing the strong political will of the leaders to deepen and expand cooperation in the prospective fields.”
Volodymyr Zelenskyy holding talks with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on March 10, 2025 (EPA)
Petrenko reaffirmed the two countries’ determination to strengthen investment relations through partnerships in priority sectors, including energy, food industries, and infrastructure, with a shared desire to continue exploring opportunities for cooperation in oil, gas, their derivatives, and petrochemicals.
He added: “Particular value is attached to the Kingdom’s practical efforts to provide a conducive environment for diplomatic engagement within the Ukraine–US–Russia triangle last year, underscoring the Saudi Monarchy’s sincere commitment to contribute to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in a meaningful and practical way.”
Petrenko expressed his country’s deep gratitude for the humanitarian and energy assistance provided by Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Riyal: Tracing Three Centuries from Diriyah’s Markets to Global Financial Iconhttps://english.aawsat.com/features/5243324-saudi-riyal-tracing-three-centuries-diriyah%E2%80%99s-markets-global-financial-icon
The Saudi riyal serves as a living record of three centuries of progress, representing not merely a unit of value but a document of the nation’s journey and renaissance. (SPA)
TT
TT
The Saudi Riyal: Tracing Three Centuries from Diriyah’s Markets to Global Financial Icon
The Saudi riyal serves as a living record of three centuries of progress, representing not merely a unit of value but a document of the nation’s journey and renaissance. (SPA)
The history of the Saudi riyal is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the Saudi state, evolving from its early days as a fluctuating medium of exchange to its modern, regulated form through significant political, social, and economic transformations, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday.
A comprehensive overview of this trajectory begins with the diverse currencies of the First Saudi State, passes through the regulatory milestones of the unification era, and culminates in today’s sophisticated monetary structure.
First Saudi State: Vibrant markets and multiple currencies
With the establishment of the First Saudi State in the mid-12th century AH (mid-18th century CE), the Arabian Peninsula lacked a unified monetary system, and a variety of currencies circulated, driven by trade across a vast geography.
According to the historical guide for Founding Day published by the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), First Saudi State founder Imam Muhammad bin Saud bin Muhammad bin Muqrin focused on building a robust economic foundation by securing financial resources and encouraging trade between Diriyah and other regions. Consequently, markets in Diriyah and Najd flourished, attracting merchants who traded in gold, silver, and barter.
As noted in Dr. Abdullah Al-Saleh Al-Uthaimin’s "History of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," popular currencies included the Austrian silver Maria Theresa thaler, locally known as Al-Riyal Al-Fransi (literally the French riyal), which became a staple due to its consistent purity and weight.
According to Dr. Mohammed Al-Manshat’s "Organizations of the First Saudi State," Diriyah’s markets reached a peak of prosperity during the reign of Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz. Political and security stability allowed merchants to move freely, facilitating smooth and reliable financial transactions.
The history of the Saudi riyal is deeply intertwined with the evolution of the Saudi state. (SPA)
Regional diversity and variety of coins
Monetary patterns varied by region. In Najd, denominations such as Al-Jadeeda, Al-Khurda, Al-Muhammadiya, and Al-Mushakhas were used according to market needs. Al-Khurda served as the smallest unit, while Al-Jadeeda was used for everyday transactions.
In Al-Ahsa, an agriculturally vital hub, a local currency called Al-Tawila, a bent copper bar combined with silver, was commonly used. Meanwhile, the Hijaz experienced a high degree of currency diversification, as Makkah and Madinah welcomed pilgrims carrying various coins from across the Muslim world.
The reign of King Abdulaziz: Foundations of organization
The entry of King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud into Riyadh in 1319 AH (1902) marked a pivotal economic turning point. Initially, he maintained the existing currencies to preserve market stability while gradually introducing a unified currency.
According to the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA), an early significant step was counterstamping circulating coins with the word "Najd" to indicate official adoption. After the unification of the Hijaz and Najd in 1343 AH (1925), the word "Hijaz" was added to reflect the expanding political unity.
By 1343 AH, monetary reform shifted from stamping to minting. SAMA records show the issuance of the first Saudi copper coins in half- and quarter-qirsh denominations, bearing King Abdulaziz’s name and the mint location, Umm Al-Qura. These were the first legal-tender coins of the Saudi state.
In 1346 AH (1927), King Abdulaziz abolished all foreign circulating currencies and introduced the first pure Saudi silver riyal. To support this, he issued a royal decree - published in the Umm Al-Qura gazette - outlining the state’s new monetary policies. After the formal unification of the Kingdom in 1351 AH (1932), the riyal became the official currency. By 1354 AH (1935), a new silver riyal bearing the name "Kingdom of Saudi Arabia" was issued, symbolizing national unity and stability.
Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency: Regulation and supervision
To manage the expansion of economic activity, King Abdulaziz issued two royal decrees in 1371 AH (1952) establishing the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA), now the Saudi Central Bank. SAMA was tasked with regulating currency issuance, maintaining its value, and supervising the banking system. It began operations in 1372 AH (1953), focusing on introducing the Saudi gold pound and completing the minting of the silver riyal.
With the establishment of the First Saudi State in the mid-18th century CE, the Arabian Peninsula lacked a unified monetary system. (SPA)
Pilgrim receipts and paper currency
Recognizing that heavy coins were becoming impractical for a modernizing economy and burdensome for pilgrims, King Abdulaziz sought a more efficient solution. This led to the introduction of "pilgrim receipts" by SAMA in 1372 AH (1953). Initially issued in 10-riyal denominations, these receipts were printed in Arabic, Persian, English, Urdu, Turkish, and Malay.
Though intended as a temporary convenience to be exchanged for silver, the receipts quickly gained the trust of merchants, citizens, and pilgrims alike. This success led SAMA to issue five-riyal notes in 1373 AH (1954) and one-riyal notes in 1375 AH (1956).
The public’s preference for these receipts over heavy coins paved the way for a permanent transition to paper currency. In 1381 AH (1961), the first official paper issue of the Saudi riyal was released during the reign of King Saud bin Abdulaziz, featuring enhanced security and depictions of historical landmarks.
The sixth issue: Trust and security
The sixth issue of the Saudi currency was released in 1438 AH (2016) under the reign of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, bearing the slogan "Trust and Security." This series incorporated the latest global technologies and security standards for both paper and metal denominations.
Furthermore, the adoption of the official Saudi Riyal Symbol on February 20, 2025, reinforced the Kingdom’s financial and national identity. The symbol’s design, inspired by Arabic calligraphy, reflects pride in the cultural heritage that defines the nation.
From the barter systems of Diriyah to the internationally recognized symbol of today, the Saudi riyal serves as a living record of three centuries of progress, representing not merely a unit of value but a document of the nation’s journey and renaissance.
AI Revolution Looms Over Berlin Film Festhttps://english.aawsat.com/entertainment/5243320-ai-revolution-looms-over-berlin-film-fest
Director and screenwriter Yoshitoshi Shinomiya attends a press conference for “A New Dawn” during the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, in Berlin, Germany, 18 February 2026. (EPA)
TT
TT
AI Revolution Looms Over Berlin Film Fest
Director and screenwriter Yoshitoshi Shinomiya attends a press conference for “A New Dawn” during the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, in Berlin, Germany, 18 February 2026. (EPA)
The artificial intelligence revolution sweeping through the entertainment sector was at first glance not evident at this year's Berlin Film Festival, but the potential for widespread changes was still on people's minds.
The festival has had the air of an arthouse bubble when it comes to the topic of AI and the event's leadership is keeping above the fray.
"At present, we do not intend to issue any statements regarding the use of AI in the film industry," the festival said in a statement sent to AFP, adding: "We are monitoring developments with great interest."
Nevertheless, some of the filmmakers present addressed the question of how the technology is changing the industry.
Yoshitoshi Shinomiya, director of the only animated feature in competition, "A New Dawn," told reporters he had briefly considered using AI in his film.
"During production, we weren't entirely sure we would be able to complete the film. At one point we wondered whether we should use AI for the backgrounds," he said.
But Shinomiya concluded that AI is not yet "well-developed enough" to do that sort of work.
Juliette Prissard from Eurocinema, an organization representing French film and TV producers, said it's only a matter of time until the tools improve.
"It's reasonable to think that in one, two or three years... you won't be able to tell the difference anymore," she told AFP.
AI can already "write scripts" and replace extras in crowd scenes or even generate "digital replicas" of someone.
- 'No choice' -
In France, where foreign-language films are frequently shown with dubbing, voice actors have already been raising the alarm about AI's impact on their profession.
But Prissard warns other film industry jobs could be replaced in the "near" future, such as "technicians, the set designers" and even "the producers themselves".
Sevara Irgacheva, secretary general of the European Film Agency Directors' association (EFAD), said that already "junior jobs are disappearing: all the assistant editors, assistant screenwriters".
Despite this, the industry "is leaning toward accepting" AI "because, in any case, we have no choice".
The tools have the potential to help the sector become more efficient and "save time at every stage of production", particularly in the more "bureaucratic" aspects of the process.
A survey carried out in early 2025 by France's National Center for Cinema (CNC) found that 90 percent of film and audiovisual professionals surveyed were already using AI tools in their work.
In Berlin, Austrian director Georg Tiller presented a short film mixing filmed footage and AI-generated images, saying it was an attempt to encourage his fellow filmmakers to fight for a place in the new "digital cinema".
"If we don't then I fear that that we will die a slow death, because it will just steamroll over us," Tiller told AFP.
- The 'temptation' of deregulation -
The issue garnered some relief with a December agreement between OpenAI and Disney, which allowed the use of the entertainment giant's characters on Sora, the AI-generated video platform.
In return, Disney now has "privileged access" to OpenAI's "highly sophisticated" tools, giving it a "technological advantage over the rest of the sector," said Prissard.
But the use of AI in cinema has prompted thorny legal questions over intellectual property and the very notion of authorship, at a time when legislation is only just beginning to grapple with the subject.
Under EU rules, streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime must carry at least 30 percent of European content in their catalogues.
Prissard questioned how those enforcing the rules "will be able to tell the difference" between original creations and "synthetic" ones.
Given "the fear of falling behind" the United States and China in developing AI technologies, Prissard said that Europe may succumb to the "temptation to allow more leeway to innovate without obstacles".
لم تشترك بعد
انشئ حساباً خاصاً بك لتحصل على أخبار مخصصة لك ولتتمتع بخاصية حفظ المقالات وتتلقى نشراتنا البريدية المتنوعة
