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Arab Strategy Forum Discusses Economic, Political Matters in Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the inuguration of Arab Strategy Forum (Arab Strategy Forum official site)
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the inuguration of Arab Strategy Forum (Arab Strategy Forum official site)
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Arab Strategy Forum Discusses Economic, Political Matters in Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the inuguration of Arab Strategy Forum (Arab Strategy Forum official site)
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the inuguration of Arab Strategy Forum (Arab Strategy Forum official site)

Prominent economic and political analysts and experts come together this year for the "Arab Strategy Forum" which will be held in Dubai on Tuesday under the patronage of the Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The 10th edition of the forum, which will be be held under the theme ‘The State of the World in 2018’, brings together prominent economic and political analysts in the region such as: former French President Francois Hollande, former US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and economist and Nobel Laureate in Economics Joseph Stiglitz.

The forum aims to enable leaders in both private and public sectors to better anticipate future developments with the aim of fostering an analytical discussion of the state of the world in 2018.

The Arab Strategy Forum also seeks to create a platform for leaders to share their short-term forecasts, through leadership and insights, and aims to enable leaders in both private and public sectors to better anticipate future developments.

Chairman of the Arab Strategy Forum Mohammed al-Gergawi indicated that the world is rapidly changing and UAE believes that it is necessary to prepare for the future with all its changes.

"This is why we are creating platforms that will help the region and the world.The Arab Strategic Forum is an important platform and an accurate tool that hosts leading thinkers of politics and economy from around the world to create a forward-looking map that will help decision-makers face the challenges and seize opportunities," he added.

Gergawi stated that this year's forum takes place amidst highly influential political and economic events globally and regionally.

Speaking about the forum, Hollande said that the world needs such a forum to build a common perception about what is going on today and what can happen tomorrow in order to help decision makers adopt preventive policies.

"We must be well aware of the importance of agreeing on common visions and close cooperation for a better future," he added.

Also at the forum, Robert Gates, who also worked for the CIA for 26 years, declared that the world faces many issues affecting the political landscape, international relations and the global economy.

"The Arab Strategic Forum plays an important role in bringing together thinkers and influencers in international relations and economics to identify global trends, new developments and set a vision of the world situation in 2018" he added.

President of Eurasia Group, Ian Bremmer, will be speaking on "Mega Trends in 2018" at the forum. He described the forum as an opportunity to strengthen the principle of cooperation and build partnerships between institutions and decision makers.

"This is why our partnership at Euro-Asia Group with the Arab Strategic Forum is to provide a model about these partnerships, hoping that it will expand and become more effective," added Bremmer.

Nobel Prize laureate in economics Joseph Stiglitz said that Arab Strategic Forum is a tool for exploring the future of the global economy and determining its direction.

"We hope that it will contribute to the formulation of common policies that support sustainable development goals," indicated Stiglitz.

Former General Manager of al-Arabiya News Channel, Abdulrahman al-Rashid stated that the Arab region witnessed in the past few years serious events that have affected the overall political and economic situation.

"This is why I consider my participation in this year's Arab Strategic Forum as part of a collective vision in a way we hope it lead to the development of solutions that will alleviate the suffering of innocent people and reduce damage created by conflicts," concluded Rashid.

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Gulf

Najaf Becomes Third Saudi Air Route to Iraq

Najaf Airport will begin receiving direct flights from Dammam starting early June (INA)
Najaf Airport will begin receiving direct flights from Dammam starting early June (INA)
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Najaf Becomes Third Saudi Air Route to Iraq

Najaf Airport will begin receiving direct flights from Dammam starting early June (INA)
Najaf Airport will begin receiving direct flights from Dammam starting early June (INA)

Saudi Arabia’s aviation authority announced on Friday that direct flights will start from Dammam to Najaf, Iraq, from June 1, strengthening the bond between the two countries.

This move is part of Saudi Arabia’s plan to increase its aviation capacity, aiming to serve more than 330 million passengers annually, with over 250 destinations worldwide.

Najaf will be the third destination in Iraq for Saudi flights, alongside Baghdad and Erbil, supporting easier travel between the two nations and boosting aviation cooperation.

Observers emphasize the significant role of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council in elevating bilateral relations to a strategic level, driven by a shared commitment to common goals and the determination of the leaders of both countries.

This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s dedication to facilitating travel for its citizens to Iraq and promoting interaction with all Iraqi communities, fostering closer ties between the two nations.

Gulf

Saudi Arabia Warns of Fake Hajj Schemes

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)
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Saudi Arabia Warns of Fake Hajj Schemes

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)

Saudi Arabia cautioned potential Hajj pilgrims on Friday to beware of fraudulent schemes advertised on social media in various countries, urging everyone to follow the rules and laws.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explained that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels in Saudi Arabia or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices.

The Ministry warned against fake ads promising cheap Hajj trips and praised Iraq’s efforts in arresting over 25 fake companies promoting “commercial Hajj.”

Only Hajj authorities can issue visas to Iraqi citizens, not any company or office claiming otherwise on social media, stressed the Ministry.

It reminded people that visas for Umrah, tourism, etc., don't allow Hajj pilgrimage, urging compliance with official rules and not to trust fake companies.

The Saudi Council of Senior Scholars explained that obtaining a Hajj permit aims to facilitate worship and ensure safety, emphasizing it’s obligatory for public benefit.

The Council advised pilgrims to follow rules, safeguard their Hajj, and perform it safely and smoothly.

Gulf

Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Yemeni Counterpart

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Yemen. SPA
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Yemen. SPA
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Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Yemeni Counterpart

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Yemen. SPA
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Yemen. SPA

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Yemen, Dr. Shaya Mohsin Zindani.

The Saudi Foreign Minister congratulated Zindani on his recent appointment as Yemen’s foreign minister, wishing him all success in his new position.

The two ministers reviewed the aspects of bilateral relations and ways of enhancing them in various fields along with discussing issues of common interest.

The meeting was attended by Saudi Ambassador to Yemen Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Jaber.

Gulf

48th Saudi Relief Airplane with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The assistance is in keeping with Saudi Arabia's humanitarian role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis. (SPA)
The assistance is in keeping with Saudi Arabia's humanitarian role in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people in times of crisis. (SPA)
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48th Saudi Relief Airplane with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

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

The 48th Saudi relief airplane, operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in coordination with the Ministry of Defense, arrived at Al-Arish International Airport in Egypt on Friday, carrying shelter items to be transported to the Palestinian people in Gaza Strip.

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

Gulf

European Countries Prepared to Recognize Palestinian State amid Ongoing Saudi Pressure

The United States vetoed last week a United Nations Security Council resolution that recommended Palestine's full membership in the world body. (AFP)
The United States vetoed last week a United Nations Security Council resolution that recommended Palestine's full membership in the world body. (AFP)
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European Countries Prepared to Recognize Palestinian State amid Ongoing Saudi Pressure

The United States vetoed last week a United Nations Security Council resolution that recommended Palestine's full membership in the world body. (AFP)
The United States vetoed last week a United Nations Security Council resolution that recommended Palestine's full membership in the world body. (AFP)

Secretary General of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization Hussein al-Sheikh stressed that several countries, specifically European ones, have changed their positions and are willing to recognize an independent Palestinian state “as soon as possible.”

In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, he said this stance will push forward the implementation of the two-state solution in line with international law.

On Monday, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah had shed light on the diplomatic pressure the Kingdom has been exerting to reach international recognition of an independent Palestinian state.

He made his remarks at the High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation between the European Union (EU) and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in Luxembourg that was held days after the United States vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution that recommended Palestine's full membership in the world body. The veto angered the Palestinians and sparked wide Arab criticism.

Nevertheless, Prince Faisal spoke on Monday of “very significant” changes in Europe in regard to more countries leaning towards recognizing a Palestinian state.

He added that the EU and GCC meeting was an opportunity to further push towards that goal.

Saudi Arabia has declared that recognizing a Palestinian state and ending the war on Gaza must come first before any agreement with the US that includes normalizing relations with Israel.

It underlined this position in February in wake of remarks by White House National Security spokesperson John Kirby.

In a statement, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said it told Washington it will not open diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized on 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital and Israel ends its war on Gaza and withdraws all of its forces from the enclave.

Riyadh reiterated its call for permanent members of the UN Security Council that have not recognized a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital to do so.

An Arab source revealed to Asharq Al-Awsat that the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, and Al-Sheikh will hold a meeting with the EU next week to discuss the recognition of a Palestinians state. They will also hold an Arab consultative meeting and a meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

A spokesperson for the Saudi embassy in the US told CNN on Wednesday that the country’s position is that establishing relations with Israel is contingent on ending the war in Gaza, recognition of a Palestinian state and establishing an irrevocable and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution and establishing a Palestinian state.

Regarding a timetable, the Kingdom is working diligently to achieve these goals as soon as possible, the spokesperson said, according to CNN.

Saudi weight

Al-Sheikh told Asharq Al-Awsat that Saudi Arabia’s political activity related to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict stems from the Kingdom’s firm, clear and unyielding position in support of the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights.

“Riyadh is employing its Arab, Islamic and international weight through calm diplomacy and in partnership with brothers in the Arab world and friends around the world to mobilize all this activity to isolate Israel and condemn its behavior, on the one hand, and support Palestinian rights on the other,” he added.

The priority at the moment lies in ending Israel’s “criminal war in Gaza and the West Bank and ensuring the withdrawal of its forces,” he stated.

He revealed that a political plan is in place, and it has received near international consensus. The plan is based on international resolutions and laws that would end the Israeli occupation and lead to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

“We are witnessing successive accomplishments on all regional and international levels in wake of Saudi Arabia’s spearheading of this political activity,” he said.

European shift

Furthermore, Al-Sheikh noted the “major shift” in the positions of several countries towards the Palestinians. Many countries, specifically European ones, are ready to recognize an independent Palestinian state as soon as possible.

This favors the two-state solution, he stressed.

Since the eruption of the conflict in Gaza in October, the US has stressed its support to the two-state solution, and yet, it still used its veto against the Security Council resolution on Palestine’s full membership at the UN.

Al-Sheikh said this position is the “greatest evidence of the United States’ isolation.” He slammed it for “flagrantly” using its veto against international will, but “people and countries all over the world support the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights and struggle for freedom and independence.”

In addition, he remarked that the American veto helped “bolster the conviction of several countries of the need to speed up the recognition of a Palestinian state and grant it full UN membership.”

“The world is aware of the oppression and injustice suffered by the Palestinian people and the cover the US is granting the Israeli occupation in its aggression against our people,” he went on to say.

Meanwhile, chairman of the Gulf Research Center Abdulaziz bin Sager said: “Saudi Arabia was leading intense diplomatic efforts to persuade the greatest number of European countries to recognize a Palestinian state without waiting for the UN will do so.”

He said it is pursuing recognition on a bilateral level because the recognition of Palestine at the UN is unlikely to happen any time soon.

He stressed the importance of the recognition, saying it will pave the way for the implementation of the two-state solution and send a message to Israel to change its practices. It also gives hope to the Palestinians and would help ensure the success of peace efforts in the region.

In the meantime, dialogue will continue between the Americans and concerned Arab countries over their vision to end the war on Gaza and the establishment of a Palestinian state, he added.

Jamaica’s Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson Smith announced on Wednesday that her country was recognizing the state of Palestine, making it the 142nd country to do so.

Also on Wednesday, Irish FM Micheal Martin said his country was working with its partner countries in the EU to recognize the state of Palestine.

Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Thursday that Madrid was committed to recognizing the state of Palestine, adding that the two-state solution was the only way to achieve peace and security in the region.

Gulf

Emir of Qatar, Bahrain FM Discuss Developing Bilateral Ties

Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani meets with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani in Doha on Thursday. (Qatar News Agency)
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani meets with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani in Doha on Thursday. (Qatar News Agency)
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Emir of Qatar, Bahrain FM Discuss Developing Bilateral Ties

Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani meets with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani in Doha on Thursday. (Qatar News Agency)
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani meets with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani in Doha on Thursday. (Qatar News Agency)

Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani received in Doha on Thursday Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid al-Zayani for talks on bilateral relations between their countries.

Meeting at the Lusail Palace in the Qatari capital, the officials discussed means to develop these relations.

Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani was present at the meeting.

Zayani had arrived in Doha earlier on Thursday on an official visit.

Gulf

OIC Islamic Summit Conference to Be Held in Gambia Next Month

OIC
OIC
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OIC Islamic Summit Conference to Be Held in Gambia Next Month

OIC
OIC

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will hold the 15th annual Islamic Summit Conference on May 4-5 in the Gambian capital, Banjul.
The session will be held under the slogan, "Enhancing Unity and Solidarity through Dialogue for Sustainable Development," the Saudi Press Agency said.
The Conference will be preceded by a preparatory meeting that will take place on April 30 and May 1.
Leaders of OIC member states will discuss the political issues of the Islamic world, most notably the Palestinian cause, economic, humanitarian, social and cultural issues, youth, women, family, science and technology, information, Muslim communities and minorities in non- OIC member states, Islamophobia, hate speech, climate change, food security, and legal matters.
The OIC secretary-general will present a report at the summit reviewing the most prominent activities, programs, and projects undertaken by the organization since the previous session of the Islamic Summit Conference.
The 15th conference will issue a final communique that includes the organization's positions on the issues submitted to the summit, a resolution on Palestine and Al-Quds Al-Sharif, and the Banjul Declaration.

Gulf

Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Cypriot Counterpart

The Saudi and Cypriot Foreign Ministers met in Riyadh on Thursday. SPA
The Saudi and Cypriot Foreign Ministers met in Riyadh on Thursday. SPA
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Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Cypriot Counterpart

The Saudi and Cypriot Foreign Ministers met in Riyadh on Thursday. SPA
The Saudi and Cypriot Foreign Ministers met in Riyadh on Thursday. SPA

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met in Riyadh on Thursday with Cypriot Foreign Minister Dr. Constantinos Kompos.

The meeting focused on strengthening the already strong relationship between the two countries. They explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in diverse areas and discussed issues of mutual interest and the latest developments in the world.

The two ministers signed an agreement that grants diplomatic and special passport holders exemption from visa requirements.

The meeting was attended by senior officials.

Gulf

47th Saudi Relief Plane with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The plane carried medical and shelter supplies to be transported to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. SPA
The plane carried medical and shelter supplies to be transported to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. SPA
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47th Saudi Relief Plane with Aid for Palestinians in Gaza Arrives in Egypt

The plane carried medical and shelter supplies to be transported to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. SPA
The plane carried medical and shelter supplies to be transported to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. SPA

The 47th Saudi relief plane, operated by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) in coordination with the Ministry of Defense, arrived in Egypt carrying medical and shelter supplies to be transported to the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

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

Gulf

Saudi Arabia Implements Second Phase of Human Trafficking Protection Agreements

Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, interviewed by the editor-in-chief of Independent Arabia in a seminar on combating human trafficking (SPA)
Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, interviewed by the editor-in-chief of Independent Arabia in a seminar on combating human trafficking (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Implements Second Phase of Human Trafficking Protection Agreements

Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, interviewed by the editor-in-chief of Independent Arabia in a seminar on combating human trafficking (SPA)
Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, interviewed by the editor-in-chief of Independent Arabia in a seminar on combating human trafficking (SPA)

Saudi Arabia has started putting into action the second phase agreements of its project to boost efforts in protecting victims of human trafficking.

This initiative is in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The announcement came from Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Saudi Human Rights Commission and Chair of the Committee to Combat Trafficking in Persons, during a seminar in Riyadh.

The seminar, focused on enhancing cooperation in combating human trafficking, gathered local and international experts to discuss challenges and global best practices in fighting these crimes.

It’s part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts, with government and international organization participation, to find better ways to combat and prevent human trafficking.

The seminar looked at laws and institutions, both nationally and internationally, designed to fight human trafficking. It also discussed regional and global agreements that set standards for fighting these crimes.

The goal was to raise awareness about common patterns of trafficking, recent developments, best ways to protect against it, and how to learn from successful global efforts to combat it.

Speakers stressed the need to work together to fight human trafficking and find new ways beyond the usual methods. They talked about the importance of having better ways to identify trafficking and help victims quickly, while also protecting their dignity.

They pointed out that trafficking crosses borders, violates human rights, and takes away freedom and dignity.

They said it’s crucial to have policies that focus on human rights, treat victims equally, and provide them with the care and support they need to integrate back into society.

They also talked about the importance of addressing the reasons behind trafficking and fixing gaps that let traffickers escape punishment, leaving victims without justice.