HRC President Praises Saudi Arabia’s Success in Combating Human Trafficking

HRC President Praises Saudi Arabia’s Success in Combating Human Trafficking
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HRC President Praises Saudi Arabia’s Success in Combating Human Trafficking

HRC President Praises Saudi Arabia’s Success in Combating Human Trafficking

President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission (HRC) and Chairman of the National Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons Dr. Awad Al-Awwad praised the Kingdom’s successes internationally in combating human trafficking crimes.

In a press statement on the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on Friday, Al-Awwad said the Kingdom's progress in the classifications and indicators of combating trafficking in persons internationally is a tangible translation of the keenness of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, to ensure the highest standards of protection of human rights in the Kingdom.

He said they are also keen to create a safe environment for decent living to achieve Saudi Vision 2030's objectives.

He stressed that the Kingdom has given great attention to combating trafficking in persons and has put in place strict laws that curb these crimes, prosecute and convict perpetrators, issue strict sentences against them, and provide assistance and care to the victims.

Al-Awwad underlined that the Saudi government has signed several memoranda of cooperation with relevant international organizations and bodies, and has adopted appropriate mechanisms to achieve the highest levels of coordination and cooperation locally between the Human Rights Commission, government agencies and civil society institutions.

This includes the launch of the National Action Plan to combat trafficking in persons, the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) for cases of trafficking in persons, and taking necessary national measures.

Al-Awwad stressed that the Kingdom does not tolerate trafficking in persons, and will move firmly to reach the best levels in combating this crime, and holding accountable and deterring its perpetrators.



Saudi FM, Lebanese Speaker Discuss Efforts Aimed at Stopping Israeli Attacks

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah
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Saudi FM, Lebanese Speaker Discuss Efforts Aimed at Stopping Israeli Attacks

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held on Thursday a telephone call with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.

During the call, Prince Faisal and Berri discussed the latest developments in Lebanon and diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a cessation of hostilities and an end to Israeli attacks.

The Saudi FM reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the stability of Lebanon and to strengthening its state institutions.

Berri praised the Kingdom’s role and its continuous efforts in supporting Lebanon’s security and the broader stability of the region.

He also stressed Lebanon’s commitment to the Taif Agreement and its rejection of any actions that threaten Saudi Arabia’s security.


Saudi Foreign Minister, Cuban Counterpart Discuss Latest Developments in Middle East

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah/File Photo
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah/File Photo
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Saudi Foreign Minister, Cuban Counterpart Discuss Latest Developments in Middle East

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah/File Photo
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah/File Photo

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received a phone call Thursday from Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, SPA reported.

During the call, they reviewed the latest developments in the Middle East, in addition to discussing a number of topics and mutual interest.


Saudi Arabia Secures Leading Rankings in Global Entrepreneurship Monitor Report

The Saudi flag. Photo: Asharq Al-Awsat
The Saudi flag. Photo: Asharq Al-Awsat
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Saudi Arabia Secures Leading Rankings in Global Entrepreneurship Monitor Report

The Saudi flag. Photo: Asharq Al-Awsat
The Saudi flag. Photo: Asharq Al-Awsat

Saudi Arabia has secured top global rankings in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) 2025–2026 report, reflecting a highly competitive environment and reinforcing its position as a premier global hub for entrepreneurship.

The Kingdom led all high-income economies in Entrepreneurial Finance, highlighting the efficiency of its financing tools for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, Saudi Arabia ranked third globally in the National Entrepreneurship Context Index (NECI), cementing its status as an elite destination for entrepreneurial investment and growth, SPA reported.

Total early-stage Entrepreneurial Activity (TEA) has seen rapid expansion, jumping from 12.1% in 2018 to 28.9% in 2025. Similarly, entrepreneurial intentions nearly doubled, rising from 26.8% to 48.5% over the same period.

This growth is mirrored in the academic sector, where the Kingdom climbed from 53rd to seventh place globally in university-based entrepreneurship.

These milestones result from integrated efforts between government entities like the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority (Monsha'at), the private sector, and academic institutions.