Saudi Arabia and Qatar to strengthen cooperation, unify positions

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Saudi Arabia’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman leaves Doha following a two-day visit and is seen off by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad. (Twitter/@KSAMOFA)
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Updated 09 December 2021
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Saudi Arabia and Qatar to strengthen cooperation, unify positions

  • The emir and crown prince co-chaired the 6th Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council meeting
  • Riyadh and Doha agree to develop economic and commercial cooperation and increase the volume of intra-trade

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Thursday concluded a two-day visit to the Qatari capital, Doha, aimed at bolstering relations.
Prince Mohammed and Emir Sheikh Tamim held a round of talks to discuss regional and international issues and the bilateral opportunities available in the political, military, security, economic, commercial, investment, industrial, cultural, sports, environment, energy and infrastructure fields.
The emir and crown prince co-chaired the 6th Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council meeting, and said they were “satisfied with what was achieved during the session,” a joint statement released following the crown prince’s visit said. 
The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation on all political issues and develop common positions that preserve both countries’ security and stability. They also agreed to continue military cooperation, strengthen the exchange of information, visits and joint training, benefit from expertise in specialized fields, exchange scholarships for military colleges and academies, and activate the security agreements signed between them.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar said they were keen to develop economic and commercial cooperation, increase the volume of intra-trade, facilitate the flow of trade movement, and take advantage of economic, commercial and industrial opportunities.




Riyadh and Doha also agreed to coordinate their positions on regional and international issues. (Twitter/@KSAMOFA)

The two sides also agreed to enhance cooperation on international climate policies and renewable energy, implement a circular carbon economy, and contribute to the sustainability of demand for global energy supplies. The Kingdom thanked Qatar for supporting important green initiatives in the Middle East, including its announcement to plant one million trees before the World Cup next year, and to plant 10 million trees by 2030.
Other areas of cooperation both counties pledged to develop include air transport, telecommunications and information technology, cybersecurity, financial technologies, digital marketing, and providing incentives to the business sectors in both countries, “especially during Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 World Cup, in a way that contributes to the success of this major event and achieves the two countries’ 2030 visions,” the statement said.
“The two sides agreed on the need to coordinate efforts to highlight the positive image of the citizens of the two countries, especially the youth,” the statement added, including organizing festivals, seminars, and cultural and entertainment conferences.
Riyadh and Doha also agreed to coordinate their positions on regional and international issues “to serve their interests and enhance security and stability in the region and the world.”
They affirmed their commitment to the AlUla declaration, achieving peace in the Middle East, and the importance of reaching a comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. They also called for concerted international efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people. 
On Yemen, the two sides said they were united in their efforts to find a comprehensive political solution to the crisis, and Qatari praised the Kingdom’s initiative to end the war and the suffering of the Yemeni people.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar welcomed the success of the recent elections in Iraq, and said they hoped the new Iraqi government will continue to work for the security, stability and development of the country. They also welcomed the agreements reached by the parties to the transitional phase in Sudan, and affirmed their continued support for its security and stability and the prosperity of the Sudanese people.
“The two sides stressed the importance of carrying out comprehensive reforms to ensure that Lebanon overcomes its crises, and that it does not become a launch pad for any actions that destabilize the security and stability of the region or a corridor for drug trafficking,” the joint statement said.




Saudi Arabia’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman leaves Doha following a two-day visit and is seen off by Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad. (Twitter/@KSAMOFA)

They also called for the need to reach a political solution to the Syrian and Libyan crisis, and expressed support for the efforts of the UN special envoy for Syria. 
Saudi Arabia and Qatar said they would continue to support security and stability in Afghanistan so it does not become a safe haven for terrorists and extremists, and called for increased international efforts to combat terrorism and support relief and humanitarian work.
The Kingdom praised the Qatar-led mediation efforts to achieve peace in Afghanistan and its vital role in evacuating foreign citizens and resuming operations at Kabul Airport.
Qatar praised the Kingdom for calling an extraordinary meeting for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation countries to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, which will be held in Pakistan on Dec. 19. 
They also stressed the need to cooperate and seriously and effectively deal with Iran’s nuclear and missile program with all its components and repercussions in a way that contributes to achieving regional and international security and stability. They emphasized the principles of good neighborliness and respect for UN resolutions and international legitimacy, and sparing the region from all destabilizing activities.
Prince Mohammed sent a cable to Sheikh Tamim following his visit, thanking him for the warm reception and hospitality he and his accompanying delegation received.
He said the talks he held over the past two days “confirmed the strength of the relations between the two brotherly countries and the common desire to deepen cooperation in all fields,” Saudi Press Agency reported.
Qatar was the fourth stop in the crown prince’s tour of Gulf countries, following the UAE and Oman. His whirlwind tour also includes visits to Bahrain and Kuwait.


Thousands worldwide benefit from KSrelief medical programs

Updated 05 May 2025
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Thousands worldwide benefit from KSrelief medical programs

  • On Saturday, the organization also concluded its volunteer open-heart surgery and catheterization project in Dushanbe, Tajikistan

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief completed medical programs in Tajikistan, Turkiye, and Tanzania, in line with the organization’s aim to support injured people worldwide.

The Saudi Noor Campaign, which will conclude on May 6, is tackling blindness in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The medical team examined 1,731 cases, assigned 198 prescription glasses, performed 60 operations and provided medication to 857 patients.

In Reyhanli district, Türkiye, KSrelief carried out a prosthetics and rehabilitation program.

With a team of 13 specialists, they fitted 36 individuals with prosthetics and 40 orthopedic splints.

On Saturday, the organization also concluded its volunteer open-heart surgery and catheterization project in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

The team performed 133 open-heart catheterizations and 15 open-heart operations.

 


KSrelief continues humanitarian initiatives in Yemen and Syria

Updated 05 May 2025
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KSrelief continues humanitarian initiatives in Yemen and Syria

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to launch volunteer programs throughout the Arab world to address humanitarian crises and improve the health of Yemeni and Syrian people.

In Damascus, the team completed three volunteer initiatives that supported hundreds with disaster response, administrative training, and psychosocial support for women and children. The program ran from April 26 to May 3.

In Yemen, meanwhile, KSrelief completed the first phase of an outreach vaccination campaign in the Aden governorate in collaboration with Yemen’s Minister of Public Health and Population Qasem Buhaibeh.

On Friday, the organization launched vocational training courses in Wadi Hadhramaut, Yemen, to improve the livelihood of locals and boost economic development.

The project targeted 1,500 people and focused on home appliance maintenance, carpentry, vehicle repair, men’s tailoring, beekeeping, plumbing, photography, and electricity and energy.

 


Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

  • Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves

RIYADH: A Riyadh fashion seminar on Sunday brought together industry leaders and creatives to explore the future of Saudi Arabia’s fashion economy.

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

Rafi Dikranian and Mohammed Bajbaa speak on “From Drops to Drives: Connecting with Communities,” exploring how culture, streetwear, and grassroots branding are reshaping consumer engagement. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

The agenda focused on three main themes: the evolution of fashion retail in the Kingdom; the role of cultural identity in building brands; and the rising importance of digital fashion and collaboration.

An awards ceremony honored the standout talents of this year’s cohort: APOA, Awaken, Bucketbox, Mona Al-Shebil, Noble & Fresh, Nora Al-Shaikh, Rebirth, Samar Nasraldin, The Untitled Project and USCITA.

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Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

One discussion explored consumer behavior in Saudi Arabia, revealing that the local market continues to grow despite global slowdowns.

Saudi brands that blend cultural heritage with bold innovation, as featured in the latest Fashion Lab showcase. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves.

Retail experiences — both physical and digital — were emphasized as key to engaging Saudi consumers.

Michael Chalhoub, CEO of Chalhoub Group, delivers the opening keynote at The Fashion Seminar 2025, highlighting the importance of creativity and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of Saudi fashion. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Youth culture, streetwear and sports are shaping brand narratives, a panel heard. Speakers discussed how fashion is being used as a tool for cultural storytelling, with an emphasis on grassroots creativity and community building.

Another topic highlighted the power of collaboration between local and international brands. Panelists discussed the importance of long-term partnerships, manufacturing localization, and mentorship to bridge gaps in knowledge and infrastructure.

Speakers also addressed the future of digital fashion, including virtual design, retail innovation, and new marketing strategies targeting Gen Z.

Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping the regional and global fashion economy was a prominent theme of the discussions.

 

 


First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

Updated 04 May 2025
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First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

  • Discussions aim to support sustainable development, promote safe tourism environment

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia — in partnership with the Maldives — is organizing the tourism sector’s inaugural Saudi-Maldives International Forum on Integrity, which is set to take place in the Maldives from May 6 to 7.

The forum is jointly organized by Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, and the Maldives’ Anti-Corruption Commission, in cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

It will cover key topics such as enhancing transparency and governance in the tourism sector, combating corruption, and boosting international partnerships and expertise exchange among member states and regional and international organizations.

The discussions aim to support sustainable development and promote a trustworthy and safe tourism environment, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The forum is expected to attract international participation from more than 40 countries and 10 regional and international organizations.

Attendees will include ministers, heads, and representatives of anti-corruption bodies from OIC member states, as well as key international organizations like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Interpol, the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities, and the UN Development Programme. Local and international experts will also take part.

Organizing the forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global efforts promoting transparency and accountability in tourism, according to the SPA.

The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s recognition of tourism as a key driver of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030. It aims to build a thriving tourism sector, diversify national income sources, and stimulate economic growth.

 


Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

  • They discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas, the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Varno in Riyadh.