Saudi, British FMs Discuss Gaza, De-escalation in the Region

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (AP file photo)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (AP file photo)
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Saudi, British FMs Discuss Gaza, De-escalation in the Region

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (AP file photo)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (AP file photo)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received on Tuesday a telephone call from David Lammy, the United Kingdom's newly appointed Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs.

Prince Faisal congratulated Lammy on his new role. The ministers discussed strengthening relations and cooperation between their countries, as well as developments in the Gaza Strip, the situation in Lebanon, and the importance of de-escalation in the region.

Separately, Prince Faisal on Tuesday in the 14th Gulf Research Meeting (GRM) in Cambridge, United Kingdom.

He emphasized the importance of strengthening the existing international order as a bulwark against chaos and conflicts, providing a framework for cooperation and peaceful coexistence among nations.

He stressed the significance of this in light of the current global challenges and reiterated the need to adhere to the principles of international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

"The looming conflicts cast a shadow over aspirations for prosperity and progress," the minister said, noting the importance of exercising restraint, wisdom, and foresight in all actions.

He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s role in supporting stability and promoting cooperation, and its efforts to build bridges of understanding and solidarity that transcend borders and divisions, aiming to create an environment conducive to innovation and prosperity for all the peoples of the region and the world.

Moreover, Prince Faisal underscored the urgent need for establishing a viable and sovereign Palestinian state, noting that the ongoing violence and bloodshed in Gaza serve as a reminder of the high human cost of the conflict and the urgent need for a lasting solution.

Additionally, he reiterated the Kingdom's continuous call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and the commitment to dialogue and negotiations based on the principles of justice, equality, and mutual respect.



Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
TT

Saudi Arabia Bids Farewell to Last Pilgrims from Madinah Airport

7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)
7,700 flights through six airports transported foreign pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj (SPA)

The last group of pilgrims from this year’s Hajj season departed Saudi Arabia on Sunday aboard a Saudia flight from Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah.

The flight carried 320 pilgrims to Kertajati, Indonesia, after they completed their Hajj rituals. Saudia, the Kingdom’s flag carrier, hosted a farewell ceremony, concluding its 74-day Hajj operations.

The first flight for this year’s Hajj season arrived in Madinah on May 9 from India with 283 pilgrims.

They were welcomed by the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah.

Saudi Arabia facilitated 7,700 flights through six airports and provided over 27,000 buses to ease pilgrim transportation. The Haramain High-Speed Railway operated more than 5,000 trips during the season.

Over 1.8 million pilgrims participated in the last Hajj season. Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel confirmed there were no health issues or outbreaks.

The organization of Hajj was praised by leaders of Arab and Islamic countries.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi commended the excellent organization and services provided to millions of pilgrims.

Bahraini King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa praised the meticulous organization and services.

Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah appreciated the modern smart services and technologies.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed highlighted the success of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management.