Portugal Praises Saudi Arabia’s Support for De-Escalation

The two ministers held talks in Lisbon on developments in the region and the world, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. SPA
The two ministers held talks in Lisbon on developments in the region and the world, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. SPA
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Portugal Praises Saudi Arabia’s Support for De-Escalation

The two ministers held talks in Lisbon on developments in the region and the world, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. SPA
The two ministers held talks in Lisbon on developments in the region and the world, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. SPA

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah has met with Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel, who praised the Kingdom for calling for de-escalation in the region.

The two ministers held talks in Lisbon on developments in the region and the world, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region. They welcomed the agreement between Iran and the United States to end military operations and launch detailed negotiations toward a lasting settlement, underscoring the importance of diplomatic solutions in maintaining regional security and stability.

Prince Faisal renewed his congratulations to Portugal on its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2027-2028, wishing it success during its term in a way that supports international peace and security.

The Foreign Minister also expressed appreciation for Portugal’s positions in support of regional issues, including its official recognition of the State of Palestine and its backing for peaceful solutions and initiatives to implement the two-state solution.

He further commended Portugal for hosting the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) in Lisbon, praising its role in promoting understanding and coexistence among peoples.

The Portuguese minister expressed his country's appreciation for the Kingdom's positions, calling for de-escalation and supporting diplomatic efforts and peaceful solutions.

He affirmed Portugal’s keenness to continue coordinating and working jointly with the Kingdom to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and investment.

Also Tuesday, Prince Faisal and Rangel signed an agreement on the mutual exemption of entry visas for holders of diplomatic and special passports.

It comes within the framework of strengthening bilateral relations between the Kingdom and the Portugal, and aims to facilitate travel and communication, enhance joint coordination, and expand areas of cooperation between the two countries.



Saudi FM Holds Phone Talks with US Secretary of State

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (SPA)
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Saudi FM Holds Phone Talks with US Secretary of State

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (SPA)
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan (SPA)

Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah held phone talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The discussions focused on the latest regional developments and stressed the importance of continued coordination and consultation to promote security and stability in the region.


Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Commitment to Global Water and Sanitation Goal at UN Forum

Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani. (SPA)
Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Commitment to Global Water and Sanitation Goal at UN Forum

Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani. (SPA)
Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG 6) through implementing an integrated water resources management approach, improving service efficiency, strengthening water security, and leveraging modern technologies and innovation in water resources management, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

The statement came during Saudi Arabia's participation in the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The forum brought together member states, international organizations, and development institutions to review progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and accelerate global efforts toward achieving the 2030 Agenda.

During the session dedicated to reviewing progress on SDG 6, Deputy Minister for Water at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani highlighted the Kingdom's efforts to develop and enhance the sustainability of the water sector. He noted that Saudi Arabia has made tangible progress in water sector management, expanding water and sanitation services, and strengthening institutional governance, contributing to greater efficiency across the entire water supply chain and supporting the long-term sustainability of water resources.

Al-Shaibani also highlighted the Kingdom's international initiatives to strengthen global cooperation in the water sector, foremost among them the Global Water Organization, which aims to promote cooperation, facilitate knowledge exchange, and accelerate sustainable solutions to global water challenges. He also noted the establishment of the International Water Research Center, which will support scientific research, innovation, and capacity building.

He emphasized that Saudi Arabia's hosting of the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh in 2027 represents an important opportunity to advance international dialogue and translate global commitments into practical solutions that enhance water security and sustainable development.

On the sidelines of the forum, several bilateral meetings were held with UN officials, representatives of international organizations, financial and development institutions, and private-sector partners. The meetings explored ways to bolster international cooperation in the water sector, exchange expertise, support joint efforts to achieve the SDGs, and discuss preparations for the 11th World Water Forum.

The High-Level Political Forum serves as the United Nations' principal platform for reviewing progress on the implementation of the SDGs. This year's forum focused on several priority goals, particularly SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation, while also emphasizing international partnerships and the exchange of expertise and best practices to support sustainable development.


Saudi Crown Prince, US President Discuss Cooperation and Regional Developments

 Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia
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Saudi Crown Prince, US President Discuss Cooperation and Regional Developments

 Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia
Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia

Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, received a phone call from US President Donald J. Trump, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

During the call, the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and the United States and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation across a range of sectors. They also exchanged views on several regional and international developments, according to the agency.

The two leaders also reviewed the latest developments in the region, including the ongoing talks between the United States and Iran. They stressed the importance of safeguarding maritime security, ensuring the freedom of navigation, protecting vital sea lanes, and supporting efforts aimed at enhancing regional security and stability.