Saudi Arabia, Spain discuss economic cooperation

Carlos Cuerpo receives Bandar Alkhorayef in Madrid. (Supplied)
Carlos Cuerpo receives Bandar Alkhorayef in Madrid. (Supplied)
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Saudi Arabia, Spain discuss economic cooperation

Saudi Arabia, Spain discuss economic cooperation
  • Alkhorayef highlighted the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and, through various incentives, attract foreign investment in the industrial and mining sectors

MADRID: Saudi Arabia’s Industry and Mineral Resources Minister Bandar Alkhorayef held talks on Friday in Madrid with Spain’s Industry and Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu, and Economy, Trade and Business Minister Carlos Cuerpo.

During the meetings, they discussed ways to develop economic relations and increase Spain’s investments in the Kingdom.

Alkhorayef highlighted the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and, through various incentives, attract foreign investment in the industrial and mining sectors.

 

 


OCHA donor support group discusses humanitarian strategies for 2025, Saudi Arabia highlights commitment to Sudan

OCHA donor support group discusses humanitarian strategies for 2025, Saudi Arabia highlights commitment to Sudan
Updated 18 October 2024
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OCHA donor support group discusses humanitarian strategies for 2025, Saudi Arabia highlights commitment to Sudan

OCHA donor support group discusses humanitarian strategies for 2025, Saudi Arabia highlights commitment to Sudan
  • A key concern raised during the meeting was the funding gap in OCHA’s 2025 budget

LONDON: The UN’s humanitarian office met on Thursday in Geneva to discuss its plans for 2025, with representatives from Saudi Arabia taking part in the meeting, Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) donor spport group convened its regular expert-level meeting, which was chaired by Norway. 

Aqeel Al-Ghamdi, assistant supervisor general of planning and development at the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) led the Kingdom’s delegation.

The meeting covered key topics including the implementation of OCHA’s Strategic Plan for 2025 and its Flagship Initiative, which aims to enhance global humanitarian coordination. 

Al-Ghamdi lauded the initiative, calling for a stronger integration of humanitarian and development efforts to ensure long-term sustainability in global aid responses.

Discussions also touched upon updates on the analysis of global humanitarian needs and resource allocation strategies. Al-Ghamdi emphasized the importance of involving local communities in the planning processes to ensure effective and inclusive aid delivery.

A key concern raised during the meeting was the funding gap in OCHA’s 2025 budget. 

Al-Ghamdi advocated for sustainable solutions to bridge this gap and called for stronger oversight and accountability mechanisms to ensure that aid reaches those most in need.

In a special session focusing on the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, Al-Ghamdi highlighted Saudi Arabia’s active role in supporting the region.

He noted the Kingdom’s recent efforts during the United Nations General Assembly, where more than $500 million was pledged to support humanitarian efforts in Sudan and surrounding regions, including a $25 million contribution from the Central Emergency Response Fund.

Saudi Arabia has committed to providing $115 million to support Sudan’s humanitarian needs, focusing on critical areas such as food aid, health services, water, sanitation, and shelter for displaced populations and refugees.

The meeting concluded with a call to strengthen cooperation and partnerships between donor countries and OCHA to ensure the necessary funding for a comprehensive and sustainable humanitarian response to crises around the world.


Heavy rain, floods forecast for Saudi Arabia

Heavy rain, floods forecast for Saudi Arabia
Updated 16 sec ago
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Heavy rain, floods forecast for Saudi Arabia

Heavy rain, floods forecast for Saudi Arabia
  • The Eastern Province, Najran, Al-Baha, Asir and Jazan regions will likely be impacted by moderate-to-heavy rainfall

RIYADH: The Civil Defense has warned of heavy rainfall and flash floods in several regions of Saudi Arabia.

Citizens and residents should take precautions by avoiding areas prone to flooding, including valleys, and not swim in dangerous areas, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

It stressed that the public should follow warnings issued by the Civil Defense in the media.

There is likely to be dust-laden winds and moderate-to-heavy rainfall in Makkah and Riyadh.

The Eastern Province, Najran, Al-Baha, Asir and Jazan regions will likely be impacted by moderate-to-heavy rainfall.

In Madinah, the Northern Borders, Qassim and Hail there will likely be light-to-moderate rainfall, the SPA reported.

 


Manga production unveils Saudi anime ‘Asateer2 Future’s Folktales’ at special screening in Riyadh

Manga production unveils Saudi anime ‘Asateer2 Future’s Folktales’ at special screening in Riyadh
Updated 18 October 2024
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Manga production unveils Saudi anime ‘Asateer2 Future’s Folktales’ at special screening in Riyadh

Manga production unveils Saudi anime ‘Asateer2 Future’s Folktales’ at special screening in Riyadh

RIYADH: Manga Productions, a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, “Misk,” celebrated the premiere of the second season of the Saudi anime series, “Asateer2 Future’s Folktales,” at Vox Cinemas-Roshan Front in Riyadh.

The event was attended by prominent media, art and culture figures, marking a new step in promoting Saudi heritage through world-class anime production.

Earlier, a special screening took place on Oct. 14 at Vox Cinemas-VIA Riyadh for diplomats and senior officials, where audiences enjoyed watching the second season for the first time in a festive atmosphere.

The audience engaged enthusiastically with the characters and new story developments, receiving widespread praise for the animation quality and visual effects that blend Saudi heritage with innovation.

The premiere reflected Manga Productions’ commitment to delivering content that showcases Saudi cultural identity.

The series continues to follow its heroes, Maha, Rayan and Sultan, as they face daily challenges, drawing wisdom from Grandma Asmaa through her traditional folktales.

The second season of the anime series “Asateer2” is set to air on MBC1 TV channel and streamed on Shahid in the Middle East and North Africa, starting Friday, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. Saudi time.

The second season is also set to air on TV Tokyo in Japan, starting Sunday, Nov. 3 at 7 a.m. Tokyo time.

Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, said: “We are delighted to see such a strong response to the premiere of the second season. This success not only reflects the quality of the work but also demonstrates the capabilities of the Saudi talents who worked on this project with passion and professionalism. At Manga Productions, we are committed to continuing this approach in producing content that meets global standards.”

Daliyah Abuabah, manager of public relations, communications and events at Manga Productions, said: “We are proud of the positive feedback received following the premiere of the second season of ‘Future’s Folktales.’ The premiere in Riyadh was a pivotal moment that brought together anime enthusiasts and influential figures from the creative field. At Manga Productions, we are committed to delivering a unique experience that reflects the essence of Saudi culture in innovative and contemporary ways. We look forward to seeing this work continue to inspire future heroes, both locally and globally.”

The premiere was marked by significant engagement on social media, with followers praising the artistic and narrative quality of the series, as well as the development of the characters and the intricate details that enhance the depth of the story. This success comes from the collaboration of 50 Saudi artists in character design, creative direction and production, in partnership with the Japanese studio, Toei Animation.


American-Jordanian artist delivers ‘Love Letter to Riyadh’

American-Jordanian artist delivers ‘Love Letter to Riyadh’
Updated 38 min 44 sec ago
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American-Jordanian artist delivers ‘Love Letter to Riyadh’

American-Jordanian artist delivers ‘Love Letter to Riyadh’
  • Show at Ritz-Carlton comprises 26 works inspired by Saudi capital
  • ‘I fell in love with every part of the people,’ Aida Murad says

RIYADH: An American-Jordanian artist has captured her love for Riyadh in a collection of 26 paintings that went on display recently at the Ritz-Carlton hotel.

Titled “A Love Letter to Riyadh,” this is Aida Murad’s first exhibition in the country and seeks to convey her passion for the city and its people.

“I fell in love with every part of the people, the nature, the energy,” she told Arab News.

“So, naturally, I had to express my love through art, which is, in this case, 26 abstract paintings that are love letters.”

 

 

Murad’s passion for Riyadh is tangible in the works on show.

“It’s a Colorful World,” for instance, includes actual leaves the artist collected from the city’s Diplomatic Quarter, which she said represented the diversity of its people.

“What I have done is actually walk around the Diplomatic Quarter and gather leaves, which felt really beautiful because I felt like a child just being curious, playing and walking around.

“I got different leaves and painted them with different colors to celebrate the diversity that I have met in Riyadh, while also honoring nature.”

“I hope you will take away from this exhibition a feeling of nourishment. Really, it’s a nourishment and gratitude to standing on the land that we are on … and a deeper appreciation for the people and for being alive.”

“A Love Letter to Riyadh” closes on Saturday.


Walaa Al-Jundi sings at Ithra for two nights

Walaa Al-Jundi sings at Ithra for two nights
Updated 18 October 2024
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Walaa Al-Jundi sings at Ithra for two nights

Walaa Al-Jundi sings at Ithra for two nights

DHAHRAN: Acclaimed 30-year-old Lebanese musician and vocalist Walaa Al-Jundi graced the King Abdulaziz Center’s Ithra Theater for her two-night gig starting on Thursday.

Wearing a glittery black dress, she dazzled the crowd with her performance on opening night.

“I’m happy to be here with you and my hope is that we will perform the best songs for you,” said Al-Jundi.

She sang a mix of original songs and classics, and several members of the audience joined her in song, swaying in their seats and creating an impromptu karaoke-like atmosphere.

Al-Jundi became a household name nearly a decade ago when she participated in the Arabic version of the singing competition, “The Voice,” in 2015. Although she did not win in that third season of the show, she captivated audiences and advanced through multiple rounds.

Known for her rich, soulful voice, Al-Jundi seamlessly weaves together elements of classical Arabic music and contemporary pop. Her distinct style has earned her recognition across the Middle East.

At Ithra, the ensemble consisted of Al-Jundi, Bahaa Daoud as maestro, Moayad Saleh, and Ahmad Ghorbel and Eslam Gamal on the violin. They were accompanied by Maichel Fouad on the qanoun, Hany Bedair and Mohamad Arafa on percussion, Karim Kotb on bass, Anas Moukhtar on ney, and Anis Waja on cello.

“Journey through the golden era of Arabic music, showcasing the timeless music of the Middle East with a selection of songs originally performed by iconic singers such as Umm Kulthum, Fairuz, Souad Mohamad, Mohamad AbdelWahab, Sabah and others,” the booklet that was handed out at the entrance described the show. “Walaa will bring her unique vocal power and interpretation to these classics, bridging tradition and modernity.”