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2 Saudi Labs Research Potential COVID-19 Vaccines

A test tube with coronavirus name label is seen in this illustration taken on January 29, 2020. (Reuters)
A test tube with coronavirus name label is seen in this illustration taken on January 29, 2020. (Reuters)
    Dammam, Riyadh – Obaid al-Suheimy and Asharq Al-Awsat
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2 Saudi Labs Research Potential COVID-19 Vaccines

A test tube with coronavirus name label is seen in this illustration taken on January 29, 2020. (Reuters)
A test tube with coronavirus name label is seen in this illustration taken on January 29, 2020. (Reuters)

A Saudi government official announced that two labs in the Kingdom were carrying out research for potential vaccines for the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 25,000 people in Saudi Arabia.

Seven hospitals are carrying out lab tests for medicine that may treat patients infected with COVID-19, said Dr. Abdullah Asiri, Assistant Deputy Minister for Preventive Health at the Ministry of Health, during a press conference in Riyadh on Sunday.

He said that the Saudi clinical trial, whose launch was announced on Saturday, is aimed at testing a number of treatment protocols that have been proven effective in preliminary testing, whether at labs or in previous studies on volunteers.

The studies are part of a global alliance led by the World Health Organization and launched weeks ago in order to speed up research that could cure coronavirus patients, he said. He spoke of four protocols, three of which are antiviral drugs that were developed to treat various viruses and have a variety of uses.

It remains to be seen whether they will be effective against COVID-19, which is what persuaded Saudi Arabia to join the alliance, along with several other nations, to test these drugs, Asiri said.

He added that COVID-19 patients, who have developed respiratory infections and are admitted to one of the seven hospitals taking part in the study, will be entered into the clinical trial to determine how effective these drugs are.

The duration of the study will vary depending on how responsive the patients are to the treatment, he continued.

“We expect to receive preliminary results within a few weeks. They will help us determine whether these drugs are effective in treating the virus,” he stressed.

Several facilities are carrying out research outside the clinical trials, he revealed. They include the King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Fahd Medical Research Center at King Abdulaziz University, Medical City at King Saud University and King Faisal Specialist Hospital.

Two labs are researching potential vaccines for COVID-19 and they have made strides in this regard, Asiri said. They are expected to contribute in the global effort to develop an effective vaccine for the virus.

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Gulf

Arab Summit Calls for UN Forces to Protect Palestinians Ahead of Implementation of Two-State Solution

A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)
A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)
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Arab Summit Calls for UN Forces to Protect Palestinians Ahead of Implementation of Two-State Solution

A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)
A handout photo made available by the official Bahrain News Agency (BNA) shows Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa (C) posing for family photo with Arab leaders and participants at the 33rd Arab League Summit, in Manama, Bahrain, 16 May 2024. (EPA/BNA)

Arab leaders called on Thursday for the deployment of United Nations peacekeepers in the Palestinian territories who can protect civilians ahead of the implementation of the two-state solution.

The leaders met at the 33rd ordinary session of the Arab League Council in Manama, under the presidency of Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, to address the war on Gaza.

In a closing statement, the leaders underscored the importance of the two-state solution and the need for setting a timeframe for the political process and negotiations. They called for taking clear measures to that end.

They also called for holding a UN-sponsored international conference focusing on resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict based on the two-state solution and that would end the Israeli occupation of all Arab lands and establish an independent Palestinian state according to international resolutions.

The sovereign and viable Palestinian state would live in security and peace side-by-side with Israel, it added.

The leaders tasked the foreign ministers of Arab countries to “act immediately to communicate with the counterparts around the world to urge them to swiftly recognize the State of Palestine.”

Consultations will be held with the FMs to discuss the details of their efforts.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the establishment of an internationally recognized Palestinian state, demanding that the international community support ceasefire efforts in Gaza.

The Kingdom is committed to resolving conflicts through peaceful means, he stressed before the summit.

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi underscored Cairo’s firm stance in rejecting the forced displacement of the Palestinian people, adding that “those who believe that security and military solutions can achieve interests or achieve security are delusional.”

He added that the region was at a crossroads “that demands that all concerned parties choose between either peace, stability and hope, or chaos and destruction that the ongoing military escalation is leading us to.”

Moreover, he noted that “history will look on long at the war in Gaza to record a major tragedy that has been marked by killing, reprisals and a siege on an entire people, their starvation and terrorization.”

He also criticized the international community’s “regrettable inability” to take any action to address the crisis.

Gulf

Saudi Crown Prince Meets with UN Sec-Gen, Arab Leaders on Sidelines of Bahrain Arab Summit

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA
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Saudi Crown Prince Meets with UN Sec-Gen, Arab Leaders on Sidelines of Bahrain Arab Summit

Photo by SPA
Photo by SPA

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud met on Thursday with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, on the sidelines of the 33rd Arab Summit in Manama.

During the meeting, they reviewed the latest developments, particularly in Gaza and its surroundings.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Energy Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of State and Cabinet Member Prince Turki bin Mohammed bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, Minister of the National Guard Prince Abdullah bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, and Minister of State, Cabinet Member, and National Security Advisor Dr. Musaed Al-Aiban.

The Crown Prince also met with a number of Arab leaders, including King of Jordan, Syria's President, and Kuwait's Prime Minister.

During the separate meetings, the Crown Prince and Arab officials discussed the latest developments, particularly in Gaza and means to achieve peace and stability. They also discussed ways of bolstering relations between their countries and the Kingdom.

Gulf

Bahraini King Stresses Importance of Establishing Just Peace in Middle East

King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA
King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA
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Bahraini King Stresses Importance of Establishing Just Peace in Middle East

King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA
King Hamad bin Issa Al Khalifa. BNA

Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa delivered a speech after assuming the presidency of the 33rd session of the Arab League from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Thursday, during which he called for the organization of an international conference for peace in the Middle East.

King Hamad emphasized the importance of establishing a final and just peace in the region, stating that humanity must triumph and prevail in the battle for peace.
He highlighted the increasing responsibility in protecting the joint Arab process due to the continuing risks surrounding Arab national security.

The King also stressed the need to open a new chapter of stability and development that brings the Arab world closer to its legitimate aspirations as a civilized force capable of understanding the era's requirements and keeping pace with its progress.
Regarding the Palestinian people, he expressed concern that they are still denied their legitimate rights to security, freedom, and self-determination.

According to SPA, he called for a joint and urgent Arab and international position to be formulated, adopting the path of dialogue and collective solidarity to halt the bloodshed of wars.
King Hamad emphasized that establishing an independent Palestinian state would benefit the entire Arab region and help overcome its crises. He stated that the approach to achieving this goal should be through advice and serious political dialogue.
He expressed hope that the consultations and decisions would contribute to re-establishing a prosperous present and a bright future that future generations deserve, and also expressed his aspirations that the summit would mark a historic turning point in the process of Arab construction.

Gulf

Saudi Crown Prince: Kingdom Supports Establishment of Internationally Recognized Palestinian State

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit
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Saudi Crown Prince: Kingdom Supports Establishment of Internationally Recognized Palestinian State

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit
Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince arrived on Thursday in Bahrain to attend the Arab League Summit

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called for the establishment of an internationally recognized Palestinian state. This came during his speech at the Arab League Summit in Manama on Thursday.

In his statement, the Crown Prince stressed that Saudi Arabia prioritized Arab issues and strengthened joint Arab action. It focused on formulating common positions on regional and international matters, particularly the Palestinian cause.  

The Crown Prince highlighted the fundraising campaign launched by the Kingdom which exceeded SAR700 million to support the Palestinians.

"The Kingdom also operated air and sea bridges to deliver aid directly to Gaza and pledged continued support to international organizations working to alleviate the tragic situation there."

He further emphasized the need for continued collaboration to confront the brutal aggression against Palestine, urging the international community to fulfil its responsibility by demanding an immediate cessation of aggression from the occupying forces and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid.

"We stress the importance of pursuing a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue based on UN legitimate resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, guaranteeing the Palestinian people's right to establish an independent state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital," SPA quoted the Crown Prince as saying.

Also, the Crown Prince said the Kingdom advocates peaceful conflict resolution, and emphasizes the critical importance of maintaining security in the Red Sea.

"Freedom of navigation in this vital waterway is an international imperative that serves the interests of the entire world. We call for the immediate cessation of any activity threatening maritime navigation's security and safety," the Crown Prince said.

In his closing statement, he affirmed that joint work can achieve sustainable development and prosperity, fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the people across the Arab region. He also congratulated Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on assuming the presidency of the 33rd Arab Summit.

Gulf

Crown Prince Leads Saudi Delegation to Arab Summit in Bahrain

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
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Crown Prince Leads Saudi Delegation to Arab Summit in Bahrain

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud headed to Manama on Thursday to lead the Kingdom’s delegation to the 33rd Arab Summit hosted by Bahrain, the Royal Court said.

It added that the Crown Prince traveled to Bahrain following directives from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Gulf

Sheikh Abdullah Al Khalifa to Asharq Al-Awsat: Bahrain Summit Faces Historic Moment

Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
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Sheikh Abdullah Al Khalifa to Asharq Al-Awsat: Bahrain Summit Faces Historic Moment

Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa
Bahraini Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa

Bahrain’s Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, emphasized that the upcoming Arab Summit in Bahrain is a significant event, given the pressing issues in the region.

In exclusive statements to Asharq Al-Awsat, Sheikh Abdullah highlighted that the summit aims to address both immediate crises and long-term development goals.

“This summit marks a crucial moment for the Arab world, as we tackle issues like the ongoing Israeli attacks on Gaza, and instability in Sudan, Libya, and Yemen. We need to act fast on security and economic challenges,” he reminded.

Sheikh Abdullah stressed that the summit’s agenda will be packed with tough issues.

He stressed the importance of Arab unity in facing crises and securing national interests through fair and comprehensive peace.

Moreover, Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the strategic significance of the Arab Summit in Bahrain, building on past successes to address the aspirations of Arab nations.

He commended Saudi Arabia’s effective leadership in the previous session, noting its influential and moderate role in the Arab League.

Sheikh Abdullah expressed confidence in Bahrain’s ability to achieve concrete results at the summit, emphasizing the search for innovative solutions to challenges.

He hoped for impactful decisions to bolster Arab security, foster diplomatic resolutions to conflicts, and promote sustainable development.

Sheikh Abdullah underlined Bahrain’s reliance on the outcomes of the Manama Declaration, reflecting a shared desire to enhance Arab cooperation.

Regarding preparations, he assured that every effort had been made to ensure readiness for the summit.

Reflecting on his delegation’s participation in finalizing the summit agenda, Sheikh Abdullah observed optimism among delegation heads for a summit marked by unity and solidarity.

“Despite growing conflicts in the Middle East and global security challenges, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries aim to keep regional balance intact,” affirmed Sheikh Abdullah.

“They're tightening policies, teaming up with economic groups for mutual gain, and securing maritime safety,” he added.

He stressed that unity and agreement “are vital for stability.”

“There’s a Gulf belief in the need to keep up efforts against challenges through sustainable methods, like boosting self-capabilities, using effective diplomacy, and forming external partnerships,” revealed Sheikh Abdullah.

“Bahrain sees unity among Gulf nations as vital for Arab security. We hope Bahrain’s leadership at the summit will lead to swift action and decisions that protect Arab interests and serve just causes,” he added.

On the Palestinian issue, Sheikh Abdullah emphasized its importance, stating it’s a top priority at the Arab Summit in Bahrain.

“We aim to end the suffering in Gaza soon and ensure peace and security for all in the region,” he asserted.

Regarding Bahrain’s stance on Palestine, he affirmed support for the Arab Peace Initiative and international resolutions, aiming to achieve Palestinians’ rights and establish their independent state through a two-state solution.

He urged the international community, especially the UN Security Council, to implement ceasefire resolutions in Gaza promptly and ensure unhindered humanitarian aid. He also stressed the need for unified Arab action at the summit to stop aggression and end the ongoing crisis.

Gulf

Arab Summit Draft: UN Protection Forces Pending Two-State Solution

Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)
Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)
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Arab Summit Draft: UN Protection Forces Pending Two-State Solution

Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)
Banner displaying flags of participating countries in the Arab Summit in Bahrain (Reuters)

An unofficial draft of the final communique for the Arab Summit in Bahrain, set to take place on Thursday, obtained by Asharq Al-Awsat, includes a call by Arab nations to deploy a UN-backed international peacekeeping force in the occupied Palestinian territories until a two-state solution is achieved.

The draft emphasizes the need for a timeline for political negotiations to establish a viable Palestinian state along pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. It holds Israel responsible for damaging cities and civilian infrastructure in Gaza.

Besides strongly condemning Israeli attacks on Gaza and calling for an immediate halt to the violence, the draft statement demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, lifting the blockade, and opening crossings for humanitarian aid.

The draft also rejects any forced displacement of Palestinians and urges a quick and lasting ceasefire, protection of civilians, and release of hostages.

It suggests Arab nations gather for a UN-sponsored conference to find a political solution for Palestine, leading to a two-state agreement.

It also urges Arab foreign ministers to push for swift recognition of Palestine by engaging with Western and global counterparts.

This aims to support Palestine’s full membership in the UN and intensify efforts for recognition by all Security Council members.

The draft strongly opposes any backing for armed groups or militias working outside state boundaries and pursuing foreign agendas conflicting with Arab interests. It stresses Arab unity in defending sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions against external threats.

It reaffirms a firm stand against terrorism in all forms and supports efforts to cut off its funding sources and combat extremist organizations. The draft urges action against extremism, hate speech, and incitement, condemning such acts for their negative impact on peace and security.

It calls for promoting values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and rejecting hatred and discrimination. Expressing concern over recent military escalation in the region, it urges all parties to avoid war risks and heightened tension.

The draft asks the UN Security Council to uphold international peace, implement resolutions for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, and prevent further escalation and spread of war in the Middle East.

Gulf

Aboul Gheit to Asharq Al-Awsat: Gaza Overshadows Arab Summit, but Other Crises Discussed

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)
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Aboul Gheit to Asharq Al-Awsat: Gaza Overshadows Arab Summit, but Other Crises Discussed

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit (Asharq Al-Awsat)

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit affirmed that while the Israeli attack on Gaza dominates discussions at the Arab Summit in Bahrain, the gathering would still address regional issues like the crises in Sudan, Yemen, and Libya, as well as water security and other shared Arab concerns.

“Undoubtedly, the Palestinian crisis and the Israeli attacks on Gaza overshadowed the summit discussions. From the preparatory meetings onward, there was a focus on resolutions concerning the difficult situation in Gaza,” Aboul Gheit told Asharq Al-Awsat.

“However, the agenda also covers a range of other important issues for the Arab world, including addressing crises in Sudan, Yemen, and Libya, as well as concerns about water and cybersecurity, among other political and developmental matters,” he added.

Aboul Gheit, discussing with Asharq Al-Awsat the Arab Summit in Bahrain, stated that recent efforts had shifted global opinion against the Israeli occupation, calling it a system of apartheid outdated for our times.

“I believe the compass of international public opinion has indeed shifted,” said the Arab League chief.

“Just last November, many European countries, as well as the United States, were giving Israel the green light to continue its massacre in Gaza,” he added.

“But today, everyone is talking about a ceasefire and even describing the occupation’s violations as nothing short of ethnic cleansing,” asserted Aboul Gheit.

He cautioned Israel against rash actions like invading Rafah or implementing displacement plans, warning of serious consequences for regional stability and its relationship with Egypt, rooted in a peace treaty.

“The plan to displace people is rejected by Palestinians, Arabs, and the world. Israel may have considered it at the start of the Gaza attack but was surprised by strong opposition, especially from Palestinians and Egyptians, who naturally align with Arab views,” said Aboul Gheit.

The Arab League chief urged Israel to be mindful of its relationship with the largest Arab country, emphasizing potential security repercussions.

“Israel needs to pay attention to the potential consequences of its reckless policies in risking its relationship with the largest Arab state. If this happens, it could have significant repercussions on Israel's overall security posture,” he said.

 

Regarding regional dynamics, Aboul Gheit addressed the Arab League’s stance on a joint Arab force for Gaza and commented on Arab relations with Türkiye and Iran, highlighting the League’s commitment to resolving crises and meeting Arab aspirations.

Gulf

Bahrain to Announce Initiatives for Fresh Start in Joint Arab Action

The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)
The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)
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Bahrain to Announce Initiatives for Fresh Start in Joint Arab Action

The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)
The Crown Prince of Bahrain receives the foreign ministers of Arab countries participating in the preparatory meeting for the Arab Summit. (SPA)

A senior Bahraini official said that the Bahrain Declaration, which will be issued Thursday at the conclusion of the 33rd Arab Summit, will express a unified Arab position toward many Arab files, mainly the Palestinian issue.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Ambassador Ahmed Al-Tarifi, Head of Arab and African Affairs at the Bahraini Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that Manama will announce, on the sidelines of the summit, a set of initiatives that will constitute a new beginning for joint Arab action.

He noted that the Bahraini Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Zayani, undertook a tour to Arab capitals, to coordinate with his counterparts on the Bahrain Declaration, saying the summit will express “the unified Arab position” towards the current developments in the Arab world.

“In addition, a number of initiatives will be launched by the Kingdom of Bahrain, which will constitute a new beginning in joint Arab action,” he remarked.

The Bahraini official pointed to challenges facing the Arab world, foremost of which is the Palestinian file and the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the rest of the Palestinian territories. He also spoke about other problems, including the situation in Sudan and Libya, and food security in the Arab world, stressing that all these issues will be discussed by the Arab leaders on Thursday.

Asked about Bahrain’s initiative to host an international conference on the Palestinian cause and the two-state solution, the Director of Arab and African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Manama is “determined to host an international peace conference that addresses the Palestinian issue and the two-state solution, within the framework of ongoing Arab and international effort in this regard.”

He added: “We saw one of the outcomes of this endeavor, last week in the United Nations General Assembly when Palestine received the votes of 143 countries. This is an Arab diplomatic success that reflects the results of joint Arab influence.”

Gulf

Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Mauritanian Counterpart

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA
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Saudi Foreign Minister Meets with Mauritanian Counterpart

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with his Mauritanian counterpart in the Bahraini capital, Manama. SPA

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with Mauritanian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad Dr. Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug in the Bahraini capital, Manama.

During Wednesday’s meeting, the two sides reviewed bilateral relations and ways to strengthen and develop them in various fields and discussed developments in the region and the world.