OIC chief calls for UNRWA funding surge in speech condemning Israeli aggression

The OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held an extraordinary session at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA)
The OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held an extraordinary session at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA)
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Updated 05 March 2024
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OIC chief calls for UNRWA funding surge in speech condemning Israeli aggression

The OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held an extraordinary session at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah on Tuesday. (SPA
  • The Israeli campaign must be placed in the context of genocide and an attempt to uproot the Palestinian people from their land, OIC chief said

JEDDAH: Countries around the world must increase funding to UNRWA in an effort to improve services for Palestinians and safeguard regional security, the head of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation has said.

Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha made the comments in an opening statement for the extraordinary session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, held at the organization’s headquarters in Jeddah on Tuesday.

He said that the organization is following donor countries’ suspension of UNRWA contributions with great concern. An increase of funding to UNRWA will confirm the international community’s commitment to protecting the rights of Palestinian refugees, he added.

In his statement, the OIC chief said that the meeting was being held in light of Israel’s aggression on Gaza.

He described the Israeli campaign as “violating all international standards, laws, and norms,” adding that the war had led to “horrific massacres, war crimes, and crimes against humanity,” including the recent killing of Palestinian civilians waiting to receive food aid.

“These crimes have so far claimed the lives of more than 30,000 Palestinian civilians, wounded nearly 70,000, most of them women and children, and displaced nearly 2 million Palestinians inside the Gaza Strip,” he said.

Israel’s occupation involves a systematic policy based on “siege, starvation, torture, arrest, killing, displacement, and indiscriminate destruction of infrastructure, housing, mosques, churches, hospitals, schools, universities, UN institutions, historical buildings and economic facilities,” the OIC chief said.

The Israeli campaign must be placed in the context of genocide and an attempt to uproot the Palestinian people from their land, he added.

Taha thanked participants, and praised the OIC member states that called for the meeting following the extraordinary Arab Islamic Summit hosted by Saudi Arabia in November 2023.

The Arab and Islamic ministerial contact group that was created at the 2023 summit has been successful in its efforts, Taha said. The council has influenced prominent countries, especially UN Security Council member states and international organizations.

A resolution passed at the November summit also urged the creation of a media monitoring unit, which Taha said had been activated. The OIC has also begun coordination with member states to activate a legal observatory that was established by resolution at the Saudi summit.

The OIC, along with 25 member states, submitted written information to the International Court of Justice and took part in the oral arguments that took place in February this year regarding the legal consequences of Israel’s occupation of Palestinian land since 1967 and violation of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, Taha said.

The Council of Foreign Ministers session also saw speeches from Mohamed Marzouk, minister of foreign affairs of Mauritania; Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi minister of foreign affairs, and Riyad Al-Maliki, minister of foreign affairs of Palestine.

In his speech, Prince Faisal said: “Our meeting today underscores the necessity of calling upon the international community and the Security Council to stop the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people, ensuring the protection of civilians, lifting the siege on Gaza, and facilitating the permanent access of humanitarian and food aid.

“The Kingdom warns of the extremely dangerous repercussions of invading and targeting the city of Rafah in the Gaza Strip.

“An expansion of military operations toward Rafah will only bring more suffering to the unarmed civilians targeted in Gaza. Our countries categorically reject the forced displacement of the Palestinian people from their territories and emphasize the importance of allowing the immediate and safe return of the displaced.”

Through urgent diplomatic efforts, and as part of its role in the ministerial committees launched from the November summit, Saudi Arabia has called on the international community to take responsibility in stopping the Gaza war, Prince Faisal added.

“We have noticed a positive development in the positions of some countries and an understanding of the magnitude of the catastrophe,” he said.

“We have seen an increase in the number of countries calling for an immediate ceasefire, and we have heard from a number of countries about their readiness in principle to recognize the State of Palestine.

“In this regard, we send our message to those countries that the time has come to make their decision to recognize the State of Palestine and continue to pressure Israel to stop the war in Gaza and accept the two-state solution.”

He added: “Despite the worsening humanitarian tragedy, with over 30,000 deaths, more than 2 million people starving, a lack of security, and the destruction of basic services and infrastructure, the bitter truth is that the international community is still incapable of stopping the humanitarian massacre.

“In light of religious, international and moral values, we note that the brutal Israeli escalation continues against civilians in Gaza and the West Bank.

“The actions taken by some countries against settlers and extremists are positive, yet these measures remain insufficient if those responsible in the Israeli government who enable them are not held accountable, threatening a complete collapse of the credibility of international institutions and international humanitarian law.”

The Saudi foreign minister raised the issue of UNRWA funding, saying that Saudi Arabia has “confidence” in the ability of the UN secretary-general to conduct an investigation into the matter and disprove the allegations that led to the funding crisis.

He warned against attempts to undermine confidence and cancel the important role played by UNRWA.

“We reaffirm, clearly and emphatically, the necessity to end the suffering and provide hope to the Palestinian people, enabling them to live in safety and self-determination through a reliable and irreversible path to establishing a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with the Arab Peace Initiative and related international resolutions,” Prince Faisal said.

Marzouk, the Mauritanian foreign minister, said: “The Gaza war represents a new chapter of genocidal wars and systematic starvation waged by the Israeli army, flagrantly violating ethical principles, international law and humanitarian international law.

“What’s worse is the suspicious international silence and the clear inability of international bodies to fulfill their responsibilities for which they were established.”

Al-Maliki, Palestine’s foreign minister, said: “Our people in the Gaza Strip are subjected to the most horrific forms of genocide — one of the most atrocious chapters being what is referred to as the Flour Massacre.

“This heinous massacre committed by the occupation forces on the morning of Thursday, Feb. 29, against Palestinian civilians waiting for the arrival of aid trucks in Gaza and its north, left dozens of martyrs, 124 martyrs, and more than 800 wounded.

“It was an integral part of the genocidal war committed by the fascist Israeli government, reaffirming its policy of forcibly displacing our people and proving once again to the international community and the countries supporting Israel that there is no alternative to an immediate ceasefire as the only way to protect civilians and provide them relief.”

He added: “I extend my thanks and appreciation to all member states who convened for this extraordinary meeting, specifically mentioning the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Islamic Republic of Iran, in addition to the State of Palestine and all participating member states, for their understanding of the real risks threatening the Palestinian cause and the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe and genocide faced by Palestinians in Gaza.”


80-year-old Saudi tour guide welcomes foreign visitors to Najran with English tours

80-year-old Saudi tour guide welcomes foreign visitors to Najran with English tours
Updated 02 November 2024
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80-year-old Saudi tour guide welcomes foreign visitors to Najran with English tours

80-year-old Saudi tour guide welcomes foreign visitors to Najran with English tours
  • Europeans are drawn to the region because of its cultural significance, he says

MAKKAH: Clips of 80-year-old Saudi citizen Saeed bin Saleh have gone viral on social media, showing him fluently conversing in English with European tourists in the Najran region of southern Saudi Arabia.

Bin Saleh’s life has been a remarkable journey. Early on, he moved to the Eastern Province in search of work, driven by the need to support his mother after losing his father at a young age.

In Dhahran, he worked alongside Americans and Europeans, which marked a turning point in his life. This experience not only improved his living conditions but also allowed him to master English.

He told Arab News that he has developed a strong and enduring connection with Western tourists who regularly visit Najran. They praise the area for its rich history, abundant with ancient artifacts and remnants of past civilizations, including the renowned Al-Okhdood site and relics from the Paleolithic era, which date back thousands of years.

He noted that the tourists he speaks with are often impressed by his fluent English, particularly considering that he is over 80 years old, and admire the detailed answers they receive to their historical inquiries.

Their questions often center around significant sites like the Al-Okhdood ruins, the Hima wells, the unique rock formations, and the region’s wealth of archaeological inscriptions, Bin Saleh said.

Reflecting on his early experience with the English language, Bin Saleh explained that he left Najran as a young man in search of work in the Eastern Province, particularly in Dhahran.

After losing his father, he took on the responsibility of supporting his mother, determined to improve their situation. Bin Saleh eventually crossed paths with an American who offered him a job assisting with preparations on the golf courses that were popular in Dhahran at that time.

His close interaction with the American gave him the opportunity to learn English at a young age, which led to a 30-year career in the Eastern Province.

During this time, he worked with several companies, including Aramco and American Airlines, before transitioning to Indian Airlines, which further helped him refine his language skills.

After many years, he decided to return to Najran, where he continued his career with the Ministry of Health as an ambulance driver. Upon retiring, he chose to dedicate his time to being close to his children and grandchildren.

Bin Saleh explained that Europeans are drawn to Najran because of its deep historical and cultural significance. They are particularly captivated by the Arabic inscriptions in Kufic script from the early Islamic period and the ancient South Arabian Musnad script.

Najran is also renowned for its bustling heritage markets, where traditional crafts such as daggers, or jambiyas, and historically significant mosques built from stone and clay can be found. In addition to its rich Islamic history, the region is home to numerous monuments from the ancient civilizations of southern Arabia.

He said that, at his age, he is no longer a full-time tour guide but is always eager to help visitors and those interested in the heritage of the region.

Najran, a key stop on the ancient caravan routes connecting the southern and northern Arabian Peninsula, is renowned for its remarkable rock carvings, including depictions of hunting and grazing scenes and human figures, alongside inscriptions in Thamudic, Musnad, and Kufic scripts — some dating to 7,000 B.C.

Bin Saleh said that Najran has gained significant attention in the eyes of visitors, particularly following the inclusion of the Hima Cultural Area on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Ongoing archaeological discoveries, led by Saudi and international teams, continue to unveil the region’s rich historical legacy.

Bin Saleh urges Saudi youth interested in becoming tour guides to immerse themselves in the region’s history, while also mastering English.

He stressed the importance of representing the true beauty of Saudi Arabia and showcasing the country’s cultural and archaeological treasures, which make it a unique and historically vibrant destination.


Saudi Arabia to host global symposium for sea turtle conservation in Jeddah

Saudi Arabia to host global symposium for sea turtle conservation in Jeddah
Updated 02 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia to host global symposium for sea turtle conservation in Jeddah

Saudi Arabia to host global symposium for sea turtle conservation in Jeddah
  • Symposium organized by General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS)

JEDDAH: The Red Sea will take center stage in global marine conservation efforts as the first International Symposium for the Conservation of Sea Turtles is set to take place in Jeddah from Nov. 3 to 6.

The event will bring together an elite gathering of over 30 local and international experts and researchers focused on protecting endangered sea turtle species and preserving marine biodiversity, Saudi Press Agency reported Friday.

The symposium, organized by the General Organization for the Conservation of Coral Reefs and Turtles in the Red Sea (SHAMS), will feature presentations and panel discussions on the latest scientific research, innovative solutions for sea turtle protection, and strategies for international collaboration.

In a statement, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture highlighred the importance of the symposium as a platform to drive effective conservation strategies and ensure the sustainable future of the Red Sea’s unique marine ecosystem.

SHAMS’ initiatives aim to develop advanced conservation policies and elevate environmental awareness around the Red Sea, particularly through innovation in marine protection.

According to the Ministry, this event will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s standing in the field of marine environmental protection while supporting the sustainable conservation of marine species and their natural habitats in the Red Sea.


How Saudi cities are enhancing quality of life, while responding to environmental challenges

How Saudi cities are enhancing quality of life, while responding to environmental challenges
Updated 02 November 2024
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How Saudi cities are enhancing quality of life, while responding to environmental challenges

How Saudi cities are enhancing quality of life, while responding to environmental challenges
  • The Green Riyadh Project plans to plant 7.5 million trees, enhancing public spaces and managing flood risks
  • Saudi Arabia’s circular economy initiatives encourage adaptive building reuse and waste-to-energy projects

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is undergoing an urban transformation, creating sustainable, vibrant communities that enhance the quality of life for residents while responding to environmental challenges.

Driven by the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and its Quality of Life Program, the Kingdom wants to see three of its cities recognized among the top 100 in the world for livability. To achieve this, it is investing in sustainable urban management and development.

“Sustainable urban management is foundational to Vision 2030, supporting Saudi cities as dynamic, resilient, and economically sustainable environments,” Abdulaziz Al-Mizani, an energy and sustainability expert, told Arab News.

This approach aligns with the Kingdom’s aim to improve quality of life and promote resource efficiency, he added.

Central to this transformation are several key concepts, including green infrastructure, smart growth, transit-oriented development, eco-cities, circular economy principles, community engagement, and resilient urban design.

In Saudi Arabia, where urban areas are rapidly expanding, the need for effective green infrastructure is considered a key priority.

Green infrastructure refers to systems that use natural processes to manage stormwater and improve air quality. “As cities expand, green infrastructure is vital for managing environmental impact while enhancing livability,” said Al-Mizani.

Examples of green infrastructure being implemented in Saudi cities include the Green Riyadh Project, which is one of the biggest urban afforestation initiatives in the world. Launched by King Salman in March 2019, it is a key Riyadh megaproject.

With a view to reducing average ambient temperatures by 2 degrees centigrade during the summer and by achieving temperature reductions of 8-15 degrees in select afforested areas, the project aims to create a more comfortable urban landscape.

In Saudi Arabia, where urban areas are rapidly expanding, the need for effective green infrastructure is pronounced. (Supplied file photo)

According to the Green Riyadh Project, the initiative is also expected to lower annual power consumption by 650 gigawatt-hours by promoting green building techniques, including green ceilings and walls.

Additionally, it will enhance rainwater management to mitigate flood risks, preserve natural areas, and bolster biodiversity.

“Integrating elements like green roofs, parks, and sustainable water management is essential for eco-cities that harmonize urban growth with natural systems,” said Al-Mizani.

DID YOUKNOW?

• The Green Riyadh Project plans to plant 7.5 million trees, enhancing public spaces and managing flood risks.

• Eco-cities in Saudi Arabia integrate renewable energy, aiming for 58.7 GW of renewable power by 2030.

• Resilient urban design includes heat-resistant materials to reduce cooling demands and improve comfort in Saudi cities.

Green roofs are covered with vegetation, which helps reduce heat absorption, improve insulation, and manage rainwater.

For urban afforestation, Saudi Arabia is planting trees and creating new green spaces in urban areas.

In line with the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom aims to plant 10 billion trees across the country by 2030, equivalent to rehabilitating more than 74 million hectares of land. The Green Riyadh Project intends to plant 7.5 million trees across the capital alone.

The distribution of these trees will be strategically planned to enhance various community spaces, including 175,000 sq. km of empty land, 16,400 km of streets and roads, 3,330 neighborhood gardens, 9,000 mosques, and 6,000 schools.

Saudi Arabia is also enhancing its sustainable urban landscape by implementing circular economy principles, which aim to minimize waste through reuse and recycling.

“Circular economy principles, such as adaptive reuse of buildings and waste-to-energy initiatives, support both resource efficiency and renewable energy generation, fitting well within the Kingdom’s sustainable development and resilience goals,” said Al-Mizani.

Circular economy principles can be applied to optimize economic zones in Saudi Arabia such as the King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh, Jazan Economic City, Prince Abdulaziz bin Musaid Economic City in Hail, and Knowledge Economic City in Madinah.

CCE Index offers a comprehensive evaluation of global progress toward achieving net-zero emissions and readiness for the circular carbon economy. (AN File)

Such collaborations, known as industrial symbiosis, align with sustainable development and circular economy goals, emphasizing the importance of resource conservation, waste reduction, and environmental protection. They involve reusing waste and by-products generated by one particular industry or industrial process to serve as raw materials for another.

Another notable application is the adaptive reuse of buildings, where old structures are repurposed for new uses, conserving resources and preserving cultural heritage. A prime example of this is the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, which transforms old buildings into vibrant cultural hubs.

Eco-cities are urban areas designed with sustainability and environmental health in mind. “A successful eco-city embodies sustainability and resilience at its core, minimizing carbon emissions, optimizing resources, and incorporating green infrastructure,” said Al-Mizani.

Such eco-cities utilize renewable energy sources such as solar and wind to reduce their carbon footprints. Saudi Arabia aims to generate 58.7 GW of renewable energy by 2030, significantly impacting urban energy consumption.

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Resilient urban design is also crucial as it focuses on creating cities that can withstand and recover from environmental stresses. This can be achieved through energy-efficient buildings with energy-efficient designs and materials that lower energy consumption.

“Heat-resistant materials are crucial in Saudi Arabia’s climate, contributing to resilient urban design by reducing cooling demands,” said Al-Mizani. “This approach enables energy efficiency while enhancing building longevity and occupant comfort.”

Heat-resistant materials can withstand high temperatures, contributing to urban comfort and sustainability.

Nonetheless, transforming Saudi Arabia’s urban landscape sustainably presents several significant challenges. “Policy innovation, public-private collaboration, and circular economy strategies are pivotal to overcoming these barriers effectively,” said Al-Mizani.

Community engagement and encouraging collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society, is also essential, he said, to create urban spaces that reflect shared environmental values.

To create urban spaces that reflect shared environmental values, community engagement is essential. (Supplied photo)

By involving residents, developments can better reflect community priorities and preferences.

“Together, these groups bring diverse resources and insights, creating a foundation for integrated approaches to sustainable urban development,” Al-Mizani added.

Thanks to these initiatives, Saudi Arabia is poised to set a benchmark for sustainable urban development in the region.

“Future Saudi cities will likely stand as global models of eco-city principles, characterized by green infrastructure, smart growth, circular economy practices, and resilient design,” said Al-Mizani.
 

 


Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to ecosystem protection at COP16

Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to ecosystem protection at COP16
Updated 01 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to ecosystem protection at COP16

Saudi Arabia reaffirms commitment to ecosystem protection at COP16
  • Representatives from 196 countries attended the 16th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Cali, Colombia
  • During the Oct. 21-Nov. 1 gathering, KSA was awarded the “Green List” certification for its achievements at the King Salman Royal Natural Reserve and the Ibex Protected Area

CALI, Colombia: The Kingdom remains committed to advancing global biodiversity and environmental protection, its delegates have emphasized at the meeting of the 16th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Cali, Colombia.

The delegation at the COP16 gathering, which began on Oct. 21 and runs to Nov. 1, was led by Mohammad Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife.

Representatives from 196 countries convened under the theme “Peace with Nature.”

“Saudi Arabia reaffirmed the Kingdom’s ambitious goal to protect 30 percent of its land and marine areas by 2030, in alignment with the UN’s biodiversity conservation objectives,” the Saudi Press Agency reported earlier this week.

“This pledge reflects Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to conserving natural habitats, safeguarding endangered species, and tackling the pressing challenges of climate change.”

The Saudi delegation emphasized the importance of expanding data sources for biodiversity monitoring, stressing that comprehensive and accurate reporting is essential to strengthen conservation strategies.

They also advocated for enhanced integration of regional efforts with global biodiversity goals, while highlighting the critical need for capacity-building programs in the Arab region that focus on collaborative learning and information exchange.

Saudi Arabia was awarded the prestigious “Green List” certification at COP16 in recognition of its achievements at the King Salman Royal Natural Reserve and the Ibex Protected Area. This recognition highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to sustainable biodiversity practices and effective ecosystem management.

Reflecting on this recognition, Qurban said: “Our participation in COP16 reaffirms Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting global biodiversity efforts and advancing the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted at COP15 in 2022.

“This ambitious framework provides a roadmap for achieving harmony with nature, with the 30x30 target — a commitment to protecting and restoring 30% of land and ocean areas by 2030 — as a key objective.”

Qurban added: “The Saudi delegation’s involvement in this conference reflects the Kingdom’s dedication to ecosystem protection and biodiversity enhancement, in alignment with Vision 2030, the Saudi Green Initiative, and the National Environmental Strategy.”

He expressed optimism about the conference’s potential to drive meaningful global biodiversity outcomes and inspire innovative solutions to sustainable development.

The Saudi Arabia delegates also highlighted national conservation initiatives, including preparations for the 16th Conference of the Parties to Combat Desertification, which Saudi Arabia will host from Dec. 2 to 13.

The Kingdom’s delegates extended invitations to their global counterparts and provided insights on conference documents that reflect Saudi Arabia’s national priorities.
 


Saudi Fashion Commission charts new course with elite training programs

Saudi Fashion Commission charts new course with elite training programs
Updated 01 November 2024
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Saudi Fashion Commission charts new course with elite training programs

Saudi Fashion Commission charts new course with elite training programs
  • Partnership features “innovative educational programs combining cutting-edge knowledge with practical experience, creating a platform for designers, brand owners, and investors to thrive in the fashion world"

RIYADH: The Saudi Fashion Commission has partnered with the Institut Français de la Mode and Misk Foundation to launch a new educational initiative, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The partnership features “innovative educational programs combining cutting-edge knowledge with practical experience, creating a platform for designers, brand owners, and investors to thrive in the fashion world,” according to the SPA.

The initiative consists of five training courses, including the Executive Business Management Qualification in Fashion, which has three phases: virtual training, in-person training in Riyadh and Paris, and project development. It includes preliminary sessions in Riyadh covering planning, marketing, sales, brand identity, business strategy, and visual merchandising, while the Paris sessions focus on digital marketing, financial management, product development, and production.

The Advanced Sustainability Practices course will be delivered through virtual training and in-person sessions in Riyadh. It covers fashion sustainability fundamentals, the circular fashion economy, sustainable fashion innovation and technology, and the implementation of sustainability measures and social responsibility through practical business models.

The Design Research course “bridges global trends with local heritage.” The six-day program establishes core project guidelines essential for fashion collection development, while “exploring creative intersections between contemporary global fashion, traditional materials, local textiles, and architectural influences,” the SPA reported. The two-phase course combines virtual learning with hands-on training in Paris.

The seven-day Visual Merchandising and Commerce course in Riyadh covers brand-building fundamentals, marketing essentials, visual display techniques, trend analysis and forecasting, business insights, and distribution strategies.

The Fashion Photography course offers six days of intensive training in Riyadh, providing “a comprehensive exploration of fashion photography with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, focusing on visual storytelling in the industry,” the SPA stated. 

Through its collaboration with IFM and Misk Foundation, the Fashion Commission “aims to elevate fashion education standards and provide individuals with fundamental tools for excellence in the competitive fashion world,” the SPA concluded.