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Saudi, Thai Officials Discuss Free Trade Agreement between GCC, Thailand

Saudi Minister of Commerce, Majid al-Qasabi with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand Jurin Laksanawisit (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Commerce, Majid al-Qasabi with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand Jurin Laksanawisit (SPA)
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Saudi, Thai Officials Discuss Free Trade Agreement between GCC, Thailand

Saudi Minister of Commerce, Majid al-Qasabi with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand Jurin Laksanawisit (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Commerce, Majid al-Qasabi with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand Jurin Laksanawisit (SPA)

The Saudi Minister of Commerce, Majid al-Qasabi, discussed on Sunday in Riyadh with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand Jurin Laksanawisit the ways to strengthen fraternal ties between the two countries at the governmental and private levels.

The two officials discussed the possibility of signing a free trade agreement between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Thailand.

Interlocutors addressed the ways of boosting cooperation in commercial and investment fields, including agriculture, industry, tourism, food industries, and entrepreneurship for small and medium enterprises.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Tourism Ahmed Bin Aqeel al-Khateeb, Minister of Investment Khalid al-Falih, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed al-Rajhi, and Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar al-Khorayef.

The meeting was also attended by Governor of the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) Saad al-Qasabi, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) Hisham al-Jadhey, and Chairman of the Federation of Saudi Chambers Ajlan al-Ajlan.

More than 200 representatives of Saudi and Thai companies participated in the Saudi-Thai Business Forum held Monday at the Federation of Saudi Chambers headquarters in Riyadh.

The forum aims to encourage commercial partnership between the two countries' business sectors, sign bilateral partnership agreements, and discuss prospects for cooperation in various economic sectors.

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Gulf

22nd Saudi Relief Plane for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA
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22nd Saudi Relief Plane for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA

The 22nd Saudi relief plane arrived Tuesday in Egypt carrying 39 tons of relief aid, including food and shelter materials, to be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza Strip, SPA reported.
The assistance is in keeping with Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis.

Gulf

Jeddah Charter for Media Responsibility Combats Vice, Counters Hate Speech

International media solidarity stand against bias and misrepresentation regarding the Palestinian Cause (Asharq Al-Awsat)
International media solidarity stand against bias and misrepresentation regarding the Palestinian Cause (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Jeddah Charter for Media Responsibility Combats Vice, Counters Hate Speech

International media solidarity stand against bias and misrepresentation regarding the Palestinian Cause (Asharq Al-Awsat)
International media solidarity stand against bias and misrepresentation regarding the Palestinian Cause (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The international forum themed “The Role of Media in Inciting Hatred and Violence – Risks of Misinformation and Bias,” has concluded in Jeddah, issuing the “Charter of Media Responsibility.”

The forum recommended the establishment of a unified international law to regulate media ethics. Additionally, the forum endorsed standards for responsible media practice and advocated for national and international laws to deter all forms of hatred.

The forum also pledged national and international support for enhancing the media message, raising awareness of various concepts and implications, using media as a soft power to serve humanitarian causes, resolve conflicts, and strengthen civilisational alliances among nations and peoples in countering hatred.

In a session on the role of religious institutions and leaders in combating hate speech and violence in media platforms, Father Nabil Haddad, the founder and director of the Jordanian Interfaith Coexistence Research Center (JICRC), discussed an initiative he presented to Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat about the details of the initiative, Haddad stressed the duty to exert positive influence, drawing a parallel with humanity uniting against the coronavirus pandemic.

He urged a unified effort to confront the virus of hatred, asserting that in this era, the world needs peacebuilders.

The initiative he proposed calls for an alliance between Christians and Muslims to reject hatred.

Arab and Islamic history is rich with examples of harmony and concord, which should serve as a model for others, stressed Haddad.

Haddad clarified that the Christian-Islamic Alliance program, outlined in his proposal, calls for celebrating affection, incorporating discourse marked by wisdom and virtuous admonition.

He emphasized the need to collaborate by organizing seminars, conferences, and dialogues.

The goal is to bring together media professionals and religious leaders to support a media discourse centered on affection.

Gulf

OIC’s Human Rights Commission Discusses Combating Racial Discrimination

OIC Assistant Secretary-General Yousef Al-Dobeay (OIC)
OIC Assistant Secretary-General Yousef Al-Dobeay (OIC)
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OIC’s Human Rights Commission Discusses Combating Racial Discrimination

OIC Assistant Secretary-General Yousef Al-Dobeay (OIC)
OIC Assistant Secretary-General Yousef Al-Dobeay (OIC)

The 22nd regular session of the Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) commenced on Sunday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Over the course of its five-day duration, the session prioritizes addressing human rights violations, including racial discrimination and its various contemporary manifestations, with the aim of formulating comprehensive recommendations to address these issues.

The gathering is expected to produce a concluding document on Thursday.

This document will encompass numerous recommendations to bridge standard gaps and achieve alignment with international human rights instruments to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination.

The OIC, representing 57 countries across four continents, has cautioned against the dangers of racial discrimination, emphasizing the shared responsibility to eradicate it.

Yousef Al-Dobeay, OIC assistant secretary-general for political affairs, inaugurated the session with a speech that discussed “Elimination of Racial Discrimination: An Islamic and Human Rights Perspective.”

The session was attended by specialized experts from relevant international organizations, representatives of member states, and observer states, along with their national institutions.

The OIC assistant secretary-general commended Saudi Arabia for its generous support.

He acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the OIC’s IPHRC in Jeddah and praised the tangible efforts of the commission in providing consistent recommendations to member states on various issues.

These recommendations aim to ensure the global alignment of human rights and fundamental freedoms with Islamic values, stressed Al-Dobeay.

He highlighted the grave consequences of racial discrimination on individuals and affected communities.

The OIC and its member states remain at the forefront of those opposing racism, stressed Al-Dobeay in a speech he gave on behalf of OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha.

He also emphasized that the elimination of racial discrimination is a shared responsibility that involves individuals, communities, and governments alike.

 

 

Gulf

Saudi Arabia, US Agree to Boost Bilateral Cooperation in Space for Peaceful Purposes

Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah al-Swaha with the Saudi delegation and US officials (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah al-Swaha with the Saudi delegation and US officials (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia, US Agree to Boost Bilateral Cooperation in Space for Peaceful Purposes

Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah al-Swaha with the Saudi delegation and US officials (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah al-Swaha with the Saudi delegation and US officials (SPA)

Saudi Arabia and the US have agreed to enhance cooperation in outer space exploration and use for peaceful purposes and in commercial opportunities for space industries.

The announcement came during the official visit of the Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Space Commission, Abdullah al-Swaha, to the US.

Swaha chaired a delegation representing the digital economy, space, and innovation system in Saudi Arabia.

Riyadh and Washington issued a joint statement focusing on enhancing cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes and discussing signing a framework agreement on bilateral cooperation in space for peaceful purposes.

Saudi Arabia is a signatory to the Artemis Accords, and it agreed with the US to expand discussions on potential collaborative activities in space, earth sciences, and space missions.

The Saudi Minister confirmed that the joint statement reflects the ambitions of the two friendly countries to expand the strategic partnership to empower people, protect the planet, and form new horizons for cooperation in space, earth sciences, and exploratory missions.

Swaha indicated that this step would contribute to the sector's sustainability, enhance research and development activities, and accelerate the growth of space-related technologies. It would also develop talents and qualify national cadres through exchanging and transferring experiences between the two sides.

Gulf

Saudi Crown Prince Receives Telephone Call from Ukrainian President

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
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Saudi Crown Prince Receives Telephone Call from Ukrainian President

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, who is also the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received a telephone call from President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine.

During the call, the Crown Prince stressed the Kingdom's keenness and support for all international efforts aimed at politically resolving the Ukrainian-Russian crisis.

President Zelensky acknowledged the efforts made by the Kingdom in this regard, SPA reported.
Additionally, they reviewed relations between the two countries and discussed several issues of mutual interest.

Gulf

Saudi Crown Prince Congratulates New Zealand PM on Formation of Govt

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
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Saudi Crown Prince Congratulates New Zealand PM on Formation of Govt

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. (SPA)

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, sent on Monday a cable of congratulations to Prime Minister of New Zealand Christopher Luxon on the formation of the government and taking the constitutional oath.

Crown Prince Mohammed expressed sincere congratulations to the prime minister, wishing him every success and the friendly people of New Zealand further progress and prosperity.

Gulf

Over 5 Million Worshippers Visit Prophet’s Mosque in One Week

The Prophet’s Mosque received 5,845,458 worshippers between November 19-26. (SPA)
The Prophet’s Mosque received 5,845,458 worshippers between November 19-26. (SPA)
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Over 5 Million Worshippers Visit Prophet’s Mosque in One Week

The Prophet’s Mosque received 5,845,458 worshippers between November 19-26. (SPA)
The Prophet’s Mosque received 5,845,458 worshippers between November 19-26. (SPA)

The Prophet’s Mosque in Saudi Arabia's Madinah received 5,845,458 worshippers between November 19-26, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Monday.

The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Prophet's Mosque organized and facilitated the entry of 525,559 visitors to the Prophet Mohammed’s tomb and welcomed 237,040, worshippers who performed prayers at Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah.

According to the authority, 11,826 people visited the sites allocated for the elderly and people with special needs, 59,435 people of different nationalities benefited from the communication services, in various languages, 12,545 people visited the mosque's library, 3,529 people visited exhibitions and museums, 11,826 people used phone services and other channels of communication, 69,420 people benefited from locative guidance services, and 57,067 people benefited from the transportation services.

The authority also distributed over 150,000 Zamzam water bottles, 91,161 Iftar meals, and 40,373 gifts to worshippers and visitors.

Gulf

Saudi Arabia: No Sustainable Alternative to Two-State Solution, Recognition of Palestinian State

Foreign Minister of the Palestinian National Authority Riyad al-Maliki and Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah arrive at the Union for the Mediterranean summit, in Barcelona, Spain, November 27, 2023. (Reuters)
Foreign Minister of the Palestinian National Authority Riyad al-Maliki and Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah arrive at the Union for the Mediterranean summit, in Barcelona, Spain, November 27, 2023. (Reuters)
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Saudi Arabia: No Sustainable Alternative to Two-State Solution, Recognition of Palestinian State

Foreign Minister of the Palestinian National Authority Riyad al-Maliki and Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah arrive at the Union for the Mediterranean summit, in Barcelona, Spain, November 27, 2023. (Reuters)
Foreign Minister of the Palestinian National Authority Riyad al-Maliki and Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah arrive at the Union for the Mediterranean summit, in Barcelona, Spain, November 27, 2023. (Reuters)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah stressed on Monday that there can be no sustainable alternative to the two-state solution in ending the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

He made his remarks at the Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum in Barcelona, Spain.

He emphasized the outcome of the Joint Arab Islamic Extraordinary Summit that took place in Riyadh earlier this month. The summit assigned a ministerial committee to visit key partners around the world to convey the unified position of the Islamic and Arab nations on action toward resolving the crisis in Gaza Strip.

Prince Faisal underlined the need for the international community to prioritize an immediate end of military operations in Gaza Strip, ensure safe and adequate passage of humanitarian aid, and release all civilian hostages.

The FM welcomed the truce agreement that was reached, which he described as a positive development as it allows the safe passage of urgent humanitarian aid. However, he pointed out that it is not enough for all assistance to enter Gaza unless it is followed by a comprehensive and permanent cessation of military operations.

He said the continued escalation in Gaza Strip has resulted in more destruction, extremism and killing of innocent people, and threatens regional security.

He stressed that the Kingdom condemns all forms of violence and the targeting of civilians, noting that the Israeli military operations have escalated in total disregard of the destruction of civilian lives as the international organizations stand idly by.

He stressed the importance of striving earnestly to overcome the current crisis in Gaza and to move toward a serious and credible plan to revive the peace process and ensure the establishment of a sovereign and independent Palestinian state in which the Palestinian people can live in dignity and prosperity.

Gulf

21st Saudi Relief Plane for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The assistance aligns with Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis. (SPA)
The assistance aligns with Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis. (SPA)
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21st Saudi Relief Plane for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The assistance aligns with Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis. (SPA)
The assistance aligns with Saudi Arabia's historic role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis. (SPA)

The 21st Saudi relief airplane arrived in Egypt on Monday carrying 39 tons of relief aid, including food and shelter materials, to be transported to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

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

Gulf

Saudi, Italian Foreign Ministers Discuss Gaza Developments

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani on the sidelines of the Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum in Barcelona on Monday. (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani on the sidelines of the Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum in Barcelona on Monday. (SPA)
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Saudi, Italian Foreign Ministers Discuss Gaza Developments

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani on the sidelines of the Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum in Barcelona on Monday. (SPA)
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah meets with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani on the sidelines of the Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum in Barcelona on Monday. (SPA)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held talks on Monday with his Italian counterpart Antonio Tajani on the sidelines of the Union for the Mediterranean Regional Forum in Barcelona.

The officials discussed the situation in Gaza Strip and other related developments. They emphasized the need to adhere to the humanitarian truce and achieve a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire to safeguard civilians and restore security and stability in Gaza.

The ministers tackled international efforts to provide humanitarian, relief and medical aid to prevent the escalation of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Prince Faisal stressed the urgent need to establish accessible corridors for the swift delivery of aid to civilians.

He also reiterated the Kingdom's firm rejection of the forced displacement of the population in Gaza and underscored the essential role of the international community in taking decisive and effective actions to address the ongoing violations committed by the Israeli forces, which repeatedly disregard international law and humanitarian principles.  

Prince Faisal also held separate meetings in Barcelona with his Irish counterpart Micheal Martin and Cypriot counterpart Constantinos Kombos.