Upon Saudi Arabia's Request, UN Declares Nov. 24 as World Conjoined Twins Day

Permanent representative of Saudi Arabia to the UN Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, delivered a speech at the UNGA, while presenting the draft resolution about the designation for adoption. SPA
Permanent representative of Saudi Arabia to the UN Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, delivered a speech at the UNGA, while presenting the draft resolution about the designation for adoption. SPA
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Upon Saudi Arabia's Request, UN Declares Nov. 24 as World Conjoined Twins Day

Permanent representative of Saudi Arabia to the UN Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, delivered a speech at the UNGA, while presenting the draft resolution about the designation for adoption. SPA
Permanent representative of Saudi Arabia to the UN Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, delivered a speech at the UNGA, while presenting the draft resolution about the designation for adoption. SPA

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed November 24 as World Conjoined Twins Day. This designation originates from an initiative put forth by Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the nucleus group composed of Bahrain, Morocco, Qatar, and Yemen.
The commemorative day aims to raise awareness about conjoined twins from a humanitarian perspective and to celebrate the remarkable achievements in the field of conjoined-twin separation surgeries.
Permanent representative of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, delivered a speech at the UNGA, while presenting the draft resolution about the designation for adoption.
Al-Wasil highlighted that the resolution aims to increase awareness about conjoined twins at various stages of their lives.
He emphasized that the international community, through the Sustainable Development Goals, committed to ensuring the health and well-being of all individuals, while ensuring that no one is left behind.
Al-Wasil added that this commitment underscores the need for fostering international and regional cooperation to ensure conjoined twins’ well-being and access to the highest quality healthcare, while promoting their human rights.
Al-Wasil highlighted human health as a priority for the Kingdom, showcasing its leading role regarding conjoined-twin separation.
The permanent representative expressed gratitude to the representatives of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) for their support throughout the drafting and negotiation phases of this resolution.



Red Sea Film Festival Unveils ‘New Saudi, New Cinema’ Program for Filmmakers

The Red Sea International Film Festival
The Red Sea International Film Festival
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Red Sea Film Festival Unveils ‘New Saudi, New Cinema’ Program for Filmmakers

The Red Sea International Film Festival
The Red Sea International Film Festival

The Red Sea International Film Festival revealed Thursday the highlights of its fourth edition in December, introducing the "New Saudi, New Cinema" program dedicated for filmmakers.

The initiative is set to embody diversity and innovation in the vibrant Saudi cinematic landscape, illuminating authentic local narratives that delve deep into the rich tapestry of Saudi cultural identity and heritage.

This year’s program features a selection of 20 films, varying from fantasy to reality and showcasing the talents of Saudi creators. The movies exhibit compelling themes such as ambition, identity, music, and inherited narratives, while exploring the intricate dynamics of human relationships.

The program reflects the talented individuals’ potential in narrating unique stories in an innovative fashion, propelling the development and global resonance of Saudi cinema.

The films herald a fresh vision for the Saudi film industry, underscoring the unwavering support of the festival for Saudi filmmakers who have triumphed on the global stage. The festival stands as a premier platform for these visionaries to unveil their talents and creations to a worldwide audience.

Red Sea International Film Festival director of Arab programs and film classics Antoine Khalife highlighted the festival's steadfast dedication to presenting a program that mirrors the ever-evolving landscape of Saudi cinema. He expressed his enthusiasm in showcasing a diverse array of films this year, spanning animated features, narratives, and documentaries.