Saudi foreign minister meets Iraqi counterpart/node/2520816/saudi-arabia
Saudi foreign minister meets Iraqi counterpart
Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan met Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Fuad Hussein in Beijing on Friday. (SPA)
The two sides affirmed their strong fraternal relations
Updated 01 June 2024
SPA
BEIJING: Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan met Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Fuad Hussein in Beijing on Friday.
The two sides affirmed their strong fraternal relations and discussed ways to enhance and develop them across various fields.
They also exchanged views on recent regional and international developments, foremostly the situation in Gaza and the continuing efforts to address it.
Trump talks about reporters being shot and says he shouldn’t have left White House after 2020 loss
With Election Day fast approaching, Trump continues to promote falsehoods about elections and argue that he can only lose to Democrat Kamala Harris if he is cheated
That’s what he did four years ago, kicking off a process of fighting the election results that culminated in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol
Updated 6 min 30 sec ago
AP
LITITZ, Pennsylvania: Donald Trump gave a profane and conspiracy-laden speech two days before the presidential election, talking about reporters being shot and suggesting he “shouldn’t have left” the White House after his 2020 loss to Democrat Joe Biden.
In remarks Sunday that bore no resemblance to his standard speech in the campaign’s closing stretch, the former president repeatedly cast doubt on the integrity of the vote and resurrected old grievances about being prosecuted after trying to overturn his defeat four years ago. Trump intensified his verbal attacks against a “grossly incompetent” national leadership and the American media, steering his rally in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, at one point on to the topic of violence against members of the press.
The GOP nominee for the White House noted the ballistic glass placed in front of him at events after a gunman’s assassination attempt in July at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump talked about places where he saw openings in that protection.
“I have this piece of glass here,” he said. “But all we have really over here is the fake news. And to get me, somebody would have to shoot through the fake news. And I don’t mind that so much.”
It was the second time in recent days that Trump has talked about guns being pointed at people he considers enemies. He suggested former Rep. Liz Cheney, a prominent Republican critic, wouldn’t be willing to support foreign wars if she had “nine barrels shooting at her.”
With less than 48 hours before Election Day, Trump continues to promote falsehoods about elections and argue that he can only lose to Democrat Kamala Harris if he is cheated, even though polls suggest a tight race.
Some of his allies, notably former chief strategist Steve Bannon, have encouraged him to prematurely declare victory on Tuesday even if the race is too early to call. That’s what Trump did four years ago, kicking off a process of fighting the election results that culminated in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol.
For much of this year, Trump has run a relatively disciplined campaign that emphasized the issues and voters his aides believe could deliver him victory, even as he clung to false theories about voter fraud and went on frequent digressions stirring controversy. But that discipline is increasingly collapsing.
Trump in recent weeks has joked about golfer Arnold Palmer’s genitalia, continued using gendered or sexist language in his efforts to win over women and staged a rally at New York’s Madison Square Garden that included crude and racist insults that dominated headlines.
Trump co-campaign manager Susie Wiles, long credited with bringing order to his often-chaotic political operation, watched the former president silently from off stage Sunday.
His campaign later sought to clarify his meaning in talking about the media.
“President Trump was brilliantly talking about the two assassination attempts on his own life, including one that came within 1/4 of an inch from killing him, something that the Media constantly talks and jokes about,” campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement. “The President’s statement about protective glass placement has nothing to do with the Media being harmed, or anything else.”
Harris was campaigning Sunday in Michigan, where she told a predominately Black church congregation in Detroit that God offers America a “divine plan strong enough to heal division.”
The two major candidates offered starkly different tones with the campaign almost at an end, as Harris said voters can reject “chaos, fear and hate.”
Trump usually veers from subject to subject, a discursive style he has labeled “the weave.” But outside the Lancaster airport, he went on long tangents and hardly mentioned his usual points on the economy, immigration and rote criticisms of Harris.
Trump referred to John Bolton, his former national security adviser and now a strident critic, as a “dumb son of a b— .” And he repeated familiar and debunked theories about voter fraud, alleging that Democrats could only win by cheating. Public polls indicate a tight and competitive race across the battleground states that will determine the Electoral College outcome.
“It’s a crooked country,” Trump said. “And we’re going to make it straight. We’re going to make it straight.”
Harris pushed back at Trump’s characterizations of US elections, telling reporters after the church service that Trump’s comments are “meant to distract from the fact that we have and support free and fair elections in our country.” Those “good systems” were in place in 2020, Harris said, and “he lost.”
The vice president said she trusts the upcoming vote tally and urged voters, “in particular people who have not yet voted to not fall for this tactic, which I think includes, suggesting to people that if they vote, their vote won’t matter.”
“Trump’s unhinged ramblings and dangerous rhetoric confirm what those closest to him have already told us: he is completely unfit to lead and would put our democracy and the rule of law at risk if given a chance,” Alex Floyd, a spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee, said in a statement, referring to former Trump aides who have warned against returning him to the White House, including retired military officers who said he’s a fascist.
Trump, for his part, acknowledged that he was sidestepping his usual approach with his conspiratorial speech. He repeatedly talked about disregarding the advice of his aides, repeating their feedback in a mocking voice and insisting that he had to talk about election fraud despite their objections.
Trump at one point suggested that he wouldn’t deliver this version of his speech again: “I hope you’ve enjoyed this,” he said, “because I’m only doing this one time.”
Indeed, his next speech a few hours later at an airport in Kinston, North Carolina, drifted between prepared remarks and familiar stories. Trump praised David McCormick, the businessman running for Senate in Pennsylvania, appearing to briefly lose track of his location but quickly recovering.
“Where’s David? Is he around some place?” Trump said. “You know we just left him. He’s a great guy.”
Some rallygoers began leaving almost immediately. One of them was Whitney Riley, 60, who said she desperately wanted to stay but had another event. She noted Trump started late.
“I got to see him land. I got to see him open,” said Riley, wearing Trump’s signature “Make America Great Again” hat and an American flag scarf. “And that’ll have to be enough.”
Sindalah showcases Saudi Arabia’s investment potential, says commentator Ali Shihabi
Likens Kingdom’s approach to giga-projects to that of venture capitalist following launch of NEOM’s new tourism destination
Updated 58 min 45 sec ago
Arab News
DUBAI: Sindalah Island, NEOM’s new luxury tourism destination under construction on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, represents a critical milestone in the Kingdom’s economic transformation and proves many of its early doubters wrong, Saudi commentator Ali Shihabi has said.
Appearing on Arab News’ current affairs program “Frankly Speaking,” Shihabi highlighted the significance of Sindalah, saying its launch marked an important shift in global perceptions of the Kingdom as a holiday destination and as an investment opportunity.
“The launch of Sindalah was very, very important because you needed proof of a concept on the ground to show what can be done,” he said.
“For people to come and see it and feel it and enjoy it and experience it” validates the vision that Saudi Arabia has for NEOM and similar projects.
Sindalah Island, which will feature world-class yachting, luxury hotels and a golf club, could soon rival the likes of Monaco or Greece as a global destination. It is the latest in a bevy of megaprojects under construction across the Kingdom as part of the Vision 2030 transformation.
Sindalah Island is the latest in a bevy of megaprojects under construction across the Kingdom as part of the Vision 2030 transformation. (NEOM photo)
This transformation is already drawing the interest of major investors. Shihabi mentioned a recent conversation with an Indian investor planning to establish a $15 billion steel plant in the Kingdom, describing it as an “exciting opportunity” that showcases the nation’s appeal to foreign investors.
“His group will be investing a billion dollars in equity,” Shihabi told “Frankly Speaking” host Katie Jensen. “And he was very excited about the potential, the structure of incentives that are given to foreign investors, whether industrial investors, whether it’s the SIDF (Saudi Industrial Development Fund), or other facilities that the Saudi government makes available for foreign investors, and the good size domestic market also for different products.”
In Shihabi’s view, the Saudi government’s approach to giga-projects like NEOM is akin to that of a venture capitalist. The government has taken on the financial risk of building and launching these projects to attract global investors.
“It was a theoretical opportunity and you needed the Kingdom to be the venture capitalist really: to build the first models, even if those are loss leaders, because you needed a proof of concept on the ground,” he said.
Ali Shihabi, an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, speaks with Frankly Speaking host Katie Jensen. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)
Shihabi said Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline, largely untouched by mass tourism, is “one of the last, if not the last, unspoiled virgin territory of exquisite seafront.”
By acting as an initial investor, the government aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a legitimate luxury destination and to cultivate demand among global tourists.
While Shihabi acknowledged that it will take time for Saudi Arabia to fully emerge as a tourism hub, he is confident that the foundation stones are in place. “Putting Saudi Arabia on the tourist mindset and map is going to take a number of years,” he said.
However, the momentum of these projects and Saudi Arabia’s investments in infrastructure, marketing, and partnerships are advancing the Kingdom’s vision to create an attractive and competitive tourism sector in the region.
“It will take time for tourists to get used to the concept of coming to the Kingdom as a tourist destination,” said Shihabi. “But I think that the foundation stones are being put in place successfully.”
The recent annual conference of the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh, commonly referred to as “Davos in the desert,” showcased the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a significant player on the global stage.
Shihabi, who is both an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia, acknowledged that FII plays a valuable role in promoting the Kingdom’s image and helping international investors understand the scale and seriousness of Vision 2030.
Ali Shihabi is an author and commentator on the politics and economics of Saudi Arabia. (AN photo by Abdulrahman bin Shalhoub)
With the launch of projects like Sindalah and explosion of opportunities in NEOM, Saudi Arabia is gradually redefining its reputation on the world stage. However, Shihabi said changing global perceptions will require time and continued openness.
“The Kingdom has never been good at communication,” he said. “One of the deep structural problems the Kingdom had was it was closed off to the world. And the big change has been the opening up of the Kingdom to the world now.
“I encourage Western journalists, always, just to take a tourist visa, get on the plane and go and see things the way they are and the way they are developing and changing. And I can hardly think of a journalist who, having made the effort, has not changed his opinion of the Kingdom from what he had before he came to the Kingdom.
“The story really is a good one to be told on the ground and much easier to be told on the ground than to be explained in theory abroad. And there are a lot of skeptics; there are a lot of cynics.
“There’s a certain amount, I guess you can say, in the world of … I don’t want to exaggerate and use the word racism, but sort of prejudice toward Arabs and Muslims, which carries over to the Kingdom, prejudice against oil wealth. And a lot of historical baggage that the Kingdom has carried, which continues to affect its image.
“But I think that the more we open up the country and the more we allow people to come in and the more we allow people to see the changes on the ground, the better the image becomes.”
Yemen’s Houthis will keep blockade on Israeli vessels after asset sale reports
“Intelligence information confirms many companies operating in maritime shipping affiliated to the Israeli enemy are working to sell their assets”: Spokesperson
Updated 03 November 2024
Reuters
CAIRO: Yemen’s Houthis said on Sunday they would maintain their maritime blockade against Israeli vessels in response to “intelligence information” regarding Israeli shipping companies selling their assets to other companies.
The Iran-aligned Houthis have said they are intensifying their attacks to support Hamas and Hezbollah in their resistance against Israeli actions in the region.
“Intelligence information confirms that many companies operating in maritime shipping affiliated to the Israeli enemy are working to sell their assets and transfer their properties from shipping and maritime transport ships to other companies,” said Yahya Sarea, military spokesperson of the group.
The Houthis will not recognize any changes of ownership and warned against any collaboration with these companies, Sarea said in a televised address.
Sarea also said the Houthis will continue imposing their naval blockade on Israel and would target any ships belonging to, linked to, or heading to Israel.
He said the blockade would continue until “the aggression stops and the siege on the Gaza Strip is lifted and the aggression on Lebanon stops.”
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini surprisingly opted to drop Retegui
Updated 03 November 2024
AP
MILAN: Despite — or perhaps because of — the absence of the league’s top goalscorer from the starting lineup, Atalanta stunned Serie A leader Napoli by winning 3-0 at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on Sunday.
Mateo Retegui was surprisingly benched but Ademola Lookman netted twice in the first half to inflict what was only Napoli’s second defeat of the season, and the first since the opening day.
Retegui was brought on with 14 minutes remaining and scored in stoppage time for his 11th goal in as many matches.
Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini surprisingly opted to drop Retegui. That was reportedly because he wanted a more unpredictable attack against a Napoli defense that had kept clean sheets in six of its past seven matches and only conceded five goals all season.
Gasperini instead picked Lookman and Charles De Ketelaere in attack with Mario Pasalic behind them and that paid off almost immediately as Atalanta took the lead in the 10th minute.
A cross was cleared by Napoli but only as far as the edge of the area where it was put back in and De Ketelaere nodded it back for Lookman to slot into the near bottom corner.
Napoli almost leveled immediately, but Scott McTominay’s powerful effort crashed off the right post.
The Atalanta forward combined again in the 31st as De Ketelaere raced down the right and squirmed between two players before passing across to Lookman, who slotted a hard shot into the far bottom corner.
Sead Kolasinac thought he had extended Atalanta’s lead early in the second half but the defender was offside.
Retegui was brought on for De Ketelaere late on and he volleyed a cross into the bottom right corner.
Carpets, sugar, spice: Wonders of Iran beckon visitors to Boulevard World
Riyadh Season’s zone is vibrant representation of country’s rich heritage
Updated 03 November 2024
Rahaf Jambi
RIYADH: Riyadh Season’s zone Boulevard World recently unveiled its Iranian area, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of its culture.
The space showcases a diverse array of Iranian cuisine, traditional crafts, and cultural performances, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
As visitors approach the area they are greeted by an ambiance that will transport them to Iran. The floating Iranian rugs and fountain adorned with a renowned Iranian statue set the stage for a memorable experience.
The area offers a real feast for the senses, with lively dance shows and music that celebrate the heritage of the historic culture.
Among the culinary delights, guests can savor lavashak, an Iranian sweet that has gained popularity for its flavor and texture.
The area also gives visitors the chance to purchase high-quality saffron, a prized spice.
Visitors can explore an exquisite selection of Iranian rugs, meticulously crafted and imported directly from the country.
Fattah Ali, the owner of an Iranian rug business featured in the area, said he was excited to be returning for a second year to Riyadh Season.
Ali told Arab News: “Iranian carpets come from various regions of the country, including Tabriz, Isfahan, and Shiraz. Each area has its unique designs and patterns. We also offer framed artworks created by skilled artisans.”
He spoke of the cultural significance of Iranian carpets, noting that they are often considered valuable investments to be passed down through the generations.
He added: “Many Saudi customers appreciate the craftsmanship, and while the younger generation may need time to understand their value, I frequently hear from patrons whose families have cherished carpets for decades.”
Visitors can also view wall panels and artwork reminiscent of features in traditional Iranian homes, as well as witness Iranian calligraphers creating works that reflect the artistic heritage of the country.
The immersive experience allows guests to appreciate the intricate details and stories behind each piece.
Boulevard World aims to be an accessible destination for everyone, with entry tickets priced at SR30 ($8) on weekends and SR20 on weekdays.
Boulevard World is a celebration of global diversity. The area has expanded this season with the addition of five new zones representing Saudi Arabia, Africa, Turkiye, Iran, and Courchevel, France.
The overall area has grown by 30 percent and now encompasses 22 distinct zones from countries across the globe.
The areas of Egypt, Spain, and Italy now boast 21 new events, catering to varied interests, from theatrical performances to traveling shows.
The Iranian area stands out as a vibrant representation of the country’s rich heritage, offering a unique opportunity to engage with its culture through food, art, and its community.
