Mohammed bin Salman Reveals 2 Climate Initiatives Worth 39 Bln Riyals, Saudi Arabia to Contribute 15% of Funding

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. (SPA)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. (SPA)
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Mohammed bin Salman Reveals 2 Climate Initiatives Worth 39 Bln Riyals, Saudi Arabia to Contribute 15% of Funding

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. (SPA)
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. (SPA)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, launched the Middle East Green Initiative on Monday which he said aimed to invest 39 billion riyals ($10.4 billion) to reduce carbon emissions in the region and protect the environment.

Speaking at the inaugural Middle East Green Initiative Summit, he said: “We gather today at this summit to join forces and coordinate our efforts to protect the environment, confront climate change, and develop a roadmap towards reducing carbon emissions in the region by more than 10% of global contribution, and plant 50 billion trees in the region, though the largest tree-planting program globally. This will contribute to achieving 5% of the global target for afforestation.”

“Today, in the first edition of this summit, we aim to work together to develop a regional roadmap and a framework to enable the achievement of these ambitious targets,” he added.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia believes that traditional energy sources were the primary reason for the transformation underwent by the regional and global countries from traditional agricultural economies to globally active economies and the catalyst towards the fastest economic growth ever known to mankind,” he continued.

“Today, we are ushering in a new green era for the region in which we are collectively leading and reaping its fruits in our joint belief that the effects of climate change are not limited to the natural environment only, but also to the economy and security of our nations,” he stressed.

“Despite that, we believe that climate change is an economic opportunity for our citizens and the private sector, which stimulated by the Middle East Green Initiative, will create quality jobs and encourage innovation in the region,” stated Crown Prince Mohammed.

“There are gaps in the regional climate action system and through coordinating regional efforts and sharing experiences and technologies, we can accelerate achievements in our initiatives,” he remarked.

“To enable this, the Kingdom announces that it will establish a Cooperative Platform to implement the concepts of Circular Carbon Economy (CCE), establish a regional hub for climate change, develop a regional center for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), a regional center for early warning of storms; a regional center for sustainable development of fisheries; and a regional cloud seeding program,” he revealed.

“These centers and programs will play a major role in establishing the necessary infrastructure to protect the environment, reduce emissions and raise the level of regional coordination,” he added.

“In continuation of the Kingdom’s leading role in the development of global energy markets, we announce the establishment of a fund to invest in Carbon Circular Economy technology solutions for the region, in addition to a regional initiative that contributes to providing solutions for ‘clean’ energy sources for cooking to more than 750 million people in the world,” he continued.

“These two initiatives are valued at roughly 39 billion riyals, and the Kingdom will contribute to roughly 15% in funding that. We will also work with countries and regional and global development banks to discuss funding and execution solutions to these initiatives,” he went on to say.

“As we are keen to raise the level of coordination, we announce the establishment of the Green Initiative Foundation, as a non-profit organization to support the agenda of the summit.”

“Facing climate change requires us to jointly work towards developing advanced technologies and creating the appropriate environment to finance them, preserving our region’s natural treasures, and strengthening our cooperation,” stressed Crown Prince Mohammed.



Iraqi Ambassador to Saudi Arabia: We Are Looking Forward to Opening New Horizons in Cooperation

Iraq’s new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Safia Taleb Al Souhail presents her credentials to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA)
Iraq’s new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Safia Taleb Al Souhail presents her credentials to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA)
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Iraqi Ambassador to Saudi Arabia: We Are Looking Forward to Opening New Horizons in Cooperation

Iraq’s new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Safia Taleb Al Souhail presents her credentials to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA)
Iraq’s new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Safia Taleb Al Souhail presents her credentials to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA)

Iraq’s new Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Safia Taleb Al Souhail said coordination between the two countries is advanced and effective on several security and political levels and in combating terrorism.

In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, she stressed that this coordination has helped in developing relations not only between Riyadh and Baghdad, but also countries in the region.

Al Souhail had presented her credentials to Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in Jeddah on Tuesday.

She said Iraqi and Saudi relations were the foundations for security and stability in the region.

“We firmly believe in joint work to push these relations to new broader horizons to serve the interests of the peoples of both countries,” she went on to say.

“Our priorities are expanding to include deepening bilateral cooperation in all fields, such as energy, security, economy, trade exchange, culture, education, health, the environment and others,” she stated.

Moreover, Al Souhail underscored her country’s keenness on activating the outcomes of the coordination meetings between Saudi Arabia and Iraq, as well as boosting joint investments and supporting regional peace and security initiatives.

The ambassador stressed the importance of partnership and mutual understanding. “We are committed to partnership and emphasize the importance of the ongoing constructive dialogue to overcome any challenges that may arise,” she went on to say.

“With this approach, we are looking forward to opening new horizons of cooperation that would achieve sustainable development for our peoples and bolster peace in the region and world,” she added.

Deepening cooperation could take place through intensifying political dialogue, strengthening political, security, intelligence and counter-terrorism partnerships, Al Souhail explained.

Furthermore, she said bolstering economic and commercial cooperation, which would support joint investments and diversify sources of income, is an important factor for stability, development and prosperity in the region.

Developing cooperation in energy, the environment, developing sources of renewable energy and boosting cultural and educational exchanges will help build bridges of understanding and friendship between the peoples of Saudi Arabia and Iraq, she continued.


Saudi Arabia Welcomes ICJ’s Measures to Increase Relief Aid into Gaza

The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat
The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat
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Saudi Arabia Welcomes ICJ’s Measures to Increase Relief Aid into Gaza

The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat
The flag of Saudi Arabia. Asharq Al-Awsat

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has welcomed the provisional measure of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to increase humanitarian and relief assistance into Gaza and to open more land crossings for aid to the Palestinian enclave to alleviate the suffering of the civilians.

The Ministry underlined the Kingdom’s support of all efforts seeking the delivery of more emergency aid into Gaza to avert a deteriorating humanitarian crisis.

It renewed its demand from the international community to take more immediate measures to stop the Israeli violations of the international law and the international humanitarian law, and implement the United Nations Security Council resolution that calls for a ceasefire in Gaza.


KSrelief Delivers 7th Aid Shipment to Sudan Through Saudi Sea Bridge

The aid is part of the second phase of the food-security project in Sudan, implemented by KSrelief. SPA
The aid is part of the second phase of the food-security project in Sudan, implemented by KSrelief. SPA
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KSrelief Delivers 7th Aid Shipment to Sudan Through Saudi Sea Bridge

The aid is part of the second phase of the food-security project in Sudan, implemented by KSrelief. SPA
The aid is part of the second phase of the food-security project in Sudan, implemented by KSrelief. SPA

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) on Thursday sent its seventh aid shipment through the Saudi relief sea bridge to Sudan.

The shipment consisted of 12 refrigerated trucks carrying a total of 14,960 food baskets, weighing 524 tons. It arrived at Sudan's Suakin Port after departing from Jeddah Islamic Port.

The aid is part of the second phase of the food-security project in Sudan, implemented by KSrelief, aiming to reach 1.5 million beneficiaries. The initiative aims to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people.

It highlights the Kingdom's role in supporting friendly nations during times of crisis and underscores the strong relations between Saudi Arabia and Sudan.


Kuwait Hands $2 Million to UNRWA for 2024

An internally displaced Palestinian girl fills containers with water, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, 21 March 2024. (EPA)
An internally displaced Palestinian girl fills containers with water, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, 21 March 2024. (EPA)
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Kuwait Hands $2 Million to UNRWA for 2024

An internally displaced Palestinian girl fills containers with water, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, 21 March 2024. (EPA)
An internally displaced Palestinian girl fills containers with water, in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, 21 March 2024. (EPA)

Kuwait has handed its annual $2 million contribution to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), the Kuwaiti state news agency KUNA reported on Thursday.

UNWRA said on Tuesday it had sufficient funds to run its operations until the end of May after many donors paused their funding over Israeli accusations that some staff took part in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack, which triggered war in Gaza.

UNRWA provides aid and essential services to Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli-occupied West Bank and across the wider region.


Kuwait Elections: Rise of Populist Rhetoric, Reform Demands Decline Before Polls

Election rally for one of the candidates in Kuwait’s 2024 National Assembly elections
Election rally for one of the candidates in Kuwait’s 2024 National Assembly elections
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Kuwait Elections: Rise of Populist Rhetoric, Reform Demands Decline Before Polls

Election rally for one of the candidates in Kuwait’s 2024 National Assembly elections
Election rally for one of the candidates in Kuwait’s 2024 National Assembly elections

Kuwaiti authorities are investigating a case involving the manipulation of special elections targeting a specific group in Kuwaiti society ahead of the 2024 National Assembly (parliament) elections.

In a statement released on “X”, Kuwait’s Public Prosecution stated that it has ordered the arrest of two suspects and is in the process of apprehending the remaining individuals, with investigations ongoing.

Over the past two years, the Kuwaiti government has implemented reforms to curb political corruption and reduce the influence of powerful tribal groups, including cracking down on by-elections and enforcing voter registration through civil ID cards to prevent vote-buying.

Several candidates for the 2024 National Assembly elections have been disqualified for failing to meet eligibility criteria, including previous convictions related to by-elections.

Candidates must not have prior felony convictions or convictions for crimes compromising honor, integrity, or religious and royal entities, unless rehabilitated.

As Kuwait's National Assembly elections approach, candidates are using gatherings during Islam’s holy month of Ramadan to connect with voters.

These gatherings, usually held in diwaniyas, are fewer this time. Candidates talk about everyday concerns like financial support and debt relief, promising solutions.

While some discuss political reform and anti-corruption measures, most focus on appealing to voters with immediate promises.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Kuwaiti writer Nasser Al-Abdali expressed concern about the lack of serious agendas in the elections, blaming it on the absence of clear ideologies.

He pointed out that without strong political movements, proposals have become purely populist.

Al-Abdali criticized the government’s role in this trend, saying they now face a choice between meeting populist demands or risking the integrity of the parliamentary system.

He also noted a surge in young candidates offering fresh ideas based on their own experiences in various fields, unlike older deputies who tend to repeat past strategies.

According to lawyer Abdulaziz Boumajdad, there’s nothing groundbreaking in the candidates’ proposals.

“While each presents solutions in their own way, the overall approach remains similar,” Boumajdad told Asharq Al-Awsat.

It is noteworthy that these elections are the third in Kuwait within two years, following previous rounds in September 2022 and March 2023, which were invalidated due to legal issues.


Saudi Minister, EU Special Representative for GCC Region Discuss Economic Relations

Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim met with the Special Representative of the European Union (EU) for the GCC Region Luigi Di Maio. (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim met with the Special Representative of the European Union (EU) for the GCC Region Luigi Di Maio. (SPA)
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Saudi Minister, EU Special Representative for GCC Region Discuss Economic Relations

Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim met with the Special Representative of the European Union (EU) for the GCC Region Luigi Di Maio. (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim met with the Special Representative of the European Union (EU) for the GCC Region Luigi Di Maio. (SPA)

Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim discussed in Riyadh with the Special Representative of the European Union (EU) for the GCC Region, Luigi Di Maio, the Saudi-European economic and commercial relations, the Saudi Press agency said on Thursday.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation in various fields between Saudi Arabia and the EU, and other topics of mutual interest.


Crown Prince Meets with Governors of Saudi Regions

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received in Jeddah the Governors of the Saudi regions. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received in Jeddah the Governors of the Saudi regions. (SPA)
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Crown Prince Meets with Governors of Saudi Regions

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received in Jeddah the Governors of the Saudi regions. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received in Jeddah the Governors of the Saudi regions. (SPA)

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received in Jeddah the Governors of the Saudi regions to mark their 31st annual meeting, the Saudi Press Agency said on Thursday.
During the reception, the Crown Prince was briefed on the most prominent topics discussed at the annual meeting of the Governors of regions, lauding their efforts in serving the homeland, citizens and residents.
The meeting was attended by Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior.


43rd, 44th Saudi Relief Planes with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrive in Egypt

The aircraft are carrying shelter items that will be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza. (SPA)
The aircraft are carrying shelter items that will be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza. (SPA)
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43rd, 44th Saudi Relief Planes with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrive in Egypt

The aircraft are carrying shelter items that will be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza. (SPA)
The aircraft are carrying shelter items that will be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza. (SPA)

The 43rd and 44th Saudi relief planes, operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in coordination with the Ministry of Defense, arrived in Egypt on Wednesday.

The aircraft are carrying shelter items that will be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

The assistance is in keeping with Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis.


Saudi, British FMs Discuss Gaza Developments

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (SPA)
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Saudi, British FMs Discuss Gaza Developments

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah. (SPA)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received on Wednesday a telephone call from UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron for talks on bilateral relations.

They also discussed regional and international issues of common concern, including developments in the Gaza Strip.


MWL Condemns Israel for Confiscating 8,000 Dunums in Jordan Valley

MWL Condemns Israel for Confiscating 8,000 Dunums in Jordan Valley
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MWL Condemns Israel for Confiscating 8,000 Dunums in Jordan Valley

MWL Condemns Israel for Confiscating 8,000 Dunums in Jordan Valley

The Muslim World League (MWL) strongly condemned on Wednesday Israel’s announcement that it was confiscating 8,000 dunams of land in the Jordan Valley in the occupied Palestinian territories.

It deemed the decision a flagrant violation of all international laws and relevant resolutions.

MWL Secretary General and Chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars Sheikh Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa denounced the ongoing Israeli violations of the rights of the Palestinian people.

He considered it a blatant challenge to the international community and an impediment to the prospects of achieving just and comprehensive peace in the region.