Latest news with #Al-Rifai
Jordan News
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Jordan News
Why Did Samir Al-Rifai Reopen the File of Independence Now? - Jordan News
Revisiting the issue of independence at this depth is not about reliving the past, but rather issuing a warning about the future. It's a strategic attempt to re-engineer national discourse—one that starts from foundational principles rather than reactive impulses. A nation that forgets its origin often loses its sense of direction. اضافة اعلان When a former prime minister like Samir Al-Rifai, a central figure in Jordan's political reform scene, reopens the file of independence—not as a relic of the past but as a vision for the future—it is neither coincidental nor ceremonial. It is a calculated political act, made in a sensitive moment, aimed at reordering national consciousness amid mounting internal and external pressures. For many, the independence file was considered complete after the foundational years, a chapter we've celebrated for decades. Today, however, it returns to the forefront—not as mere history, but as a contemporary issue deeply tied to the future of the state and the meaning of sovereignty in a region gripped by instability. Al-Rifai, known for chairing the Royal Committee to Modernize the Political System, understands that reopening the independence file is not a repetition of tired rhetoric. Rather, it is a reaffirmation that political independence is inseparable from internal reform. When political performance becomes questionable, national identity is contested, and public space is saturated with contradictory narratives, there is a need to return to foundational concepts—not as preserved slogans, but as new starting points. In this context, independence is no longer just a memory—it becomes a pressing question: To what extent do Jordanians still feel like genuine partners in the independent state their forefathers built? The timing of reopening this file is also intentional. The region is in upheaval. Global powers are redrawing maps of influence. Around Jordan, state models are collapsing under internal conflicts or foreign interference. National identities are disintegrating into sectarian, ethnic, or political divisions. In such an environment, reaffirming independence becomes a defensive measure against the slow erosion of the nation-state—and an opportunity to emphasize Jordan's unity and resilience in an unrelenting regional storm. We cannot ignore today's logic of dominance. It no longer relies solely on traditional warfare but also manifests through economic pressures, conditional aid, and foreign influence on domestic policies. In such a climate, the idea of independence transcends historical celebration—it becomes a moral and political stance, one that must be defended, revived in public debate, and linked to any reform that aims to be serious, not superficial. Thus, we must resist reducing independence to an annual ritual. Instead, we should revive its true meaning, tie it directly to the country's present-day challenges, and shield it from becoming an empty protocol. Independence isn't merely a document signed long ago—it is an ongoing struggle against the erosion of national will, and a continuous evolution in the relationship between authority and society. Do not leave the story of national identity and independence to foreign narratives or to a tired popular memory. Reconstruct it in the spirit of this era. Connect it to today's challenges. Instill it in the consciousness of future generations. Jordan, which has stood politically and securely for a century, is not immune to the dangers that toppled others—unless it invests in the awareness of its people and their commitment to their national identity.
Arab Times
02-05-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwaiti Surgeon Dr. Waddah Al-Rifai Selected for US-European Exchange Program
KUWAIT CITY, May 2: The American Surgical Association has selected Dr. Waddah Al-Rifai, a prominent Kuwaiti physician and Chair of the Department of Surgery at Creighton University, to participate in the 2025 Scientific Exchange Program with the European Surgical Association. Dr. Al-Rifai is the first surgeon from Kuwait, the Gulf region, and the Arab world to receive this distinction. In remarks to the Kuwait News Agency, Dr. Al-Rifai expressed deep pride in being honored during the 31st annual meeting of the European Society of Surgery, currently taking place in Geneva, Switzerland. The conference opened on Friday and will conclude on Saturday. Dr. Al-Rifai credited the achievement to the unwavering support extended to the medical sector by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah. He noted that his selection reflects the growing international recognition of Kuwaiti medical expertise and underscores the country's respected status in the global healthcare community. Reaffirming his commitment to serving Kuwait and humanity, Dr. Al-Rifai emphasized the importance of scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange with international medical institutions as a key factor in advancing the nation's healthcare system. He also expressed sincere gratitude to the American Surgical Association for the honor, highlighting his eagerness to contribute meaningfully to the program and to further elevate Kuwait's presence on the international medical stage.
Arab News
24-04-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Farasan Islands to spend $112 million on infrastructure, housing
RIYADH: The Farasan Islands in southern Saudi Arabia have become well-known attractions for their sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. A small group of coral islands about 40 km off the coast of Jazan in the Red Sea, they are rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. This has inspired a development initiative aimed at improving the area's infrastructure to strengthen its appeal as a prime destination for tourists and investors. The Jazan Region Municipality has revealed 20 completed and ongoing projects in the Farasan Islands governorate, costing a total of SR423 million ($112 million). There are 16 municipal initiatives costing SR103 million, including road paving, sanitation, and city operations, all of which are aimed at enhancing quality of life. Around SR320 million has been set aside for the development of four housing projects. Three residential plans covering 1,711 plots and a developmental housing project comprising 92 residential units have been earmarked by the municipality. By building new parks, beautifying beaches, and providing family-friendly recreational areas, the municipality aims to meet the needs of the local community and amplify investment opportunities. The Farasan Islands represent a substantial investment opportunity for both local and international investors, especially considering their many attractions. The cultural village of Al-Qassar, known for its well-preserved historical houses, abundant fresh groundwater, and flourishing date palms, provide a glimpse into the traditional island way of life. Other sites include the Al-Qandal Forest for its mangrove trees, as well as the Deer Reserve, Al-Dana Park, and Al-Hases Park. In addition to the natural wonders of the islands, there are archeological sites, including the house of Al-Rifai and the historic Najdi Mosque. The projects and investments are expected to create jobs and strengthen the local economy, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
Arab Times
29-03-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait Embassy Warns Students: Follow US Laws or Face Visa Revocation
KUWAIT CITY, March 29: The Kuwait Cultural Office at the Embassy of Kuwait in Washington has announced that, according to the articles 3 and 24 of scholarship regulations, scholarship students must respect the laws of the host country and represent Kuwait positively by adhering to all applicable regulations. Failure to comply may result in visa revocation, loss of entry status to the U.S., and potential deportation, which could severely affect a student's academic progress. The office urged all students to fully adhere to the laws and guidelines to ensure a successful academic experience. The Cultural Counselor and Head of the Kuwaiti Cultural Office in Washington Dr. Said Yousef Al-Rifai issued a circular to all students in the United States in which he stressed the importance of strict adherence to US laws to ensure their legal safety and academic progress without issues that could hinder their studies. He highlighted some important laws and guidelines that students must follow, including traffic regulations. Dr. Al-Rifai explained that students should obtain an American driver's license once they are settled in their residence and to stop using their Kuwaiti license. They should familiarize themselves with their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulations, as requirements differ between states Comply They must comply with traffic laws, including speed limits, traffic signals, vehicle insurance, public parking laws, and pay all relevant vehicle-related fees and taxes according to state laws. Students were also reminded to promptly pay any traffic violations to avoid legal penalties and ensure proper vehicle registration and insurance under the vehicle owner/driver's name. Meanwhile, the office stressed the importance of adhering to immigration laws, urging students to update and validate their I-20 form with the International Student Office at their university, comply with academic attendance requirements, avoid unexcused absences, update their address with relevant authorities when moving to a new residence, and refrain from participating in protests or gatherings that could jeopardize their legal status in the country. Regarding housing and rental agreements, the Cultural Office advised students to adhere to their lease terms and pay utility bills for electricity, water, gas and garbage services on time to avoid late fees. Students should respect housing regulations, maintain their residences properly, and avoid damaging any property to prevent legal or financial repercussions. For banking and financial transactions, students were reminded to follow the terms of their bank accounts, use them legally, avoid late payments, and ensure they do not exceed available balances, as this could impact both their legal and financial status
