Latest news with #ChristopheFarnaud
Observer
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Oman joins EU in celebrating 75th Europe Day
The Sultanate of Oman joined the European Union (EU) in celebrating the 75th Europe Day with a landmark jazz concert, showcasing cultural diplomacy and international friendship. Hosted by a delegation of the European Union to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in Oman, the evening featured a mesmerising jazz performance by Luca Velotti and Silvia Manco Duo at Bait Al Zubair recently in honour of the 75th anniversary of Europe Day. The evening symbolised unity, cooperation and a shared commitment to peace and dialogue between Europe and Oman. This year's celebration marked a historic milestone — 75 years since the Schuman Declaration of May 9, 1950, which laid the foundation for the European Union and its enduring mission to transform a war-torn continent into a peaceful, prosperous and united Europe. Oman joins EU in celebrating 75th Europe Day Europe Day serves as a reminder of Europe's shared past and future rooted in cooperation, openness and the belief that unity and diversity can coexist. "On Europe Day, it is important to remember the value of peace and dialogue, the importance of partnerships for building a more prosperous and secure future," said Christophe Farnaud, Ambassador of the European Union to the Sultanate of Oman, emphasising the significance of Europe Day. "The European Union values the partnership with the Sultanate of Oman and applauds its role in advancing peace and security in the region," he added. Oman joins EU in celebrating 75th Europe Day Renowned Italian jazz artists Luca Velotti, known for his collaborations with Paolo Conte and Silvia Manco, a distinguished pianist and vocalist, captivated the audience with a sophisticated performance that merged classic jazz with European soul, serving as a bridge between cultures and embodying the spirit of Europe Day. The event was part of the European Union's broader engagement to strengthen cultural exchanges with Oman and foster mutual understanding, reinforcing the values that define the Europe-Oman partnership: dialogue, respect and collaboration.
Times of Oman
14-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman Joins Europe in Celebrating the 75th Europe Day with a Landmark Jazz Concert in Muscat
Muscat: In a powerful display of cultural diplomacy and international friendship, the Delegation of the European Union to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman, in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy to Oman, hosted a Jazz Concert by Luca Velotti & Silvia Manco Duo at Bait Al Zubair on Monday, 12 May 2025, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Europe Day. In the esteemed presence of Amb. Dr. Afkar bin Nathim bin Ali Al Farsi, Head of the Department of International Trade, Knowledge Economy and Technology at the Foreign Ministry, H.E. Christophe Farnaud, Ambassador of the European Union to the Sultanate of Oman, and H.E. Pierluigi D'Elia, Ambassador of Italy to the Sultanate of Oman welcomed senior Omani officials, members of the diplomatic community, prominent cultural figures, and members of the Omani and European communities. The evening was a showcase of unity, cooperation, and the shared commitment to peace and dialogue between Europe and Oman. This year's celebration marked a historic milestone—75 years since the Schuman Declaration of 9 May 1950, which laid the foundation for the European Union and its enduring mission to transform a war-torn continent into a peaceful, prosperous, and united Europe. Europe Day is a reminder of Europe's shared past and future which is rooted in cooperation, openness, and the belief that unity and diversity can go hand in hand. Highlighting the importance of Europe Day, H.E. Christophe Farnaud, Ambassador of the European Union to the Sultanate of Oman recalled that: 'On Europe Day, it is important to remember the value of peace and dialogue, the importance of partnerships for building a more prosperous and secure future. The European Union values the partnership with the Sultanate of Oman and applauds its role in advancing peace and security in the region.' Renowned Italian jazz artists Luca Velotti, known for his collaborations with Paolo Conte, and Silvia Manco, a distinguished pianist and vocalist, captivated the audience with a sophisticated performance that merged classic jazz with European soul. Their music served as a bridge between cultures, evoking the very spirit of Europe Day. The event was part of the European Union's broader engagement to strengthen cultural exchanges with Oman and foster mutual understanding. It further reinforces the values that define the Europe-Oman partnership: dialogue, respect, and collaboration.
Times of Oman
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Times of Oman
Royal Office Minister receives Ambassador of EU
Muscat: General Sultan Mohammed Al Nu'amani, Minister of the Royal Office received Christophe Farnaud, Non-resident Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to the Sultanate of Oman. During the meeting, both sides discussed several topics of mutual interest. The Ambassador expressed his appreciation for the Sultanate of Oman's firm stance in finding solutions through dialogue and peace, stressing the importance of strengthening areas of joint cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and the European Union.
Arab News
09-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
EU delegation to Riyadh celebrates Europe Day 2025
RIYADH: The Delegation of the European Union to Saudi Arabia hosted a reception on Thursday night at the ambassador's residence in Riyadh's diplomatic quarter to celebrate Europe Day. Europe Day officially falls on May 9 to mark the adoption of the Schuman Declaration, which in 1950 laid the foundations of what would later become the European Union. The occasion holds special significance this year as it marks 75 years of the signing of the declaration. Guest of honor was Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed El Khereiji. Christophe Farnaud, the EU ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman, said May 9, 1950 paved the way for the birth of the EU as a project of peace for the European continent. What became known as the Schuman Declaration sought to make war 'not merely unthinkable, but materially impossible.' In recognition of this extraordinary achievement, the EU was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012, he added. The Schuman Declaration is a powerful reminder that peace is not a given. It must be nurtured, defended, and promoted, he said, adding that after being the battleground for two world wars, Europe learned the hard way that it is only through cooperation and creating interconnected societies that countries can achieve lasting peace, prosperity and progress. While the world is changing rapidly and becoming more fragmented, the EU continues to promote dialogue, stability, prosperity and mutual understanding. Against this backdrop, Farnaud said: 'We are privileged to be Saudi Arabia's strategic partner as the Kingdom opens up to the world, having embarked on a spectacular social and economic transformation under the Vision 2030 program. This partnership grows stronger every day — solid, productive and expanding. We have found common ground across many sectors, including security, economic cooperation, energy, green transition, tourism, education, the arts and sports.' Over the past year, he said, bilateral relations have achieved significant milestones and an exceptional number of high-level visits and exchanges between the EU and Saudi Arabia further strengthened ties. In October last year, the first EU-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit was held in Brussels, a historic moment, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attending. 'We have common geopolitical interests. Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing major crisis in Palestine and Israel frame the challenges of our shared future. The EU welcomed the Saudi role to facilitate a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine,' Farnaud said. 'On the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, we have joined efforts to reinvigorate the political process toward a two-state solution and established the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, co-sponsored by Saudi Arabia, Norway and the EU,' he said. On the economic front the EU is Saudi Arabia's second-largest trading partner and its first direct foreign investor. 'But we want to go further, whether through free trade agreements, sectoral collaborations or expanded dialogue,' the ambassador said. 'Last year we launched the European Chamber of Commerce in Saudi Arabia, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region. 'Another area is security cooperation. Through naval operations Atalanta and Aspides, the EU contributes to freedom of navigation, safeguarding maritime security in this region, from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean.' The EU on Feb. 19 last year launched the EU Naval Force Operation Aspides, in response to escalating Houthi attacks on warships and merchant vessels in the Red Sea and northwest Indian Ocean.
Leaders
16-04-2025
- Business
- Leaders
EU to Waive Visas for Saudi Citizens
Saudi citizens will soon enjoy visa-free travel to European Union (EU) countries within the Schengen area. This groundbreaking policy exempts Saudi citizens from pre-entry visa requirements, enabling seamless travel across 27 member states. Christophe Farnaud, EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, confirmed ongoing efforts to fully eliminate short-stay visa mandates. Ambassador Farnaud emphasized recent advancements in EU-Saudi travel relations. In April 2024, the European Commission introduced multi-entry visas for Saudis and GCC nationals, valid for short stays up to five years. 'These changes reflect Europe's commitment to deepening ties with Saudi Arabia,' he stated. The reforms aim to simplify travel while fostering cultural and strategic collaboration. Strengthening Tourism Ties Furthermore, Farnaud underscored Saudi Arabia's expanding role in global tourism and Europe's pivotal support for this vision. Enhanced tourism exchanges and efficient travel procedures, he noted, will boost mutual understanding and global connectivity. Saudi travelers can now visit Europe multiple times over five years with a single visa, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for business, leisure, and cultural dialogue. The EU's April 2024 ruling harmonized visa rules for GCC citizens, prioritizing Saudi Arabia as a key partner. This landmark decision eliminates repetitive visa applications, saving time and resources for travelers. Saudis can now explore Europe's diverse destinations effortlessly, reinforcing bilateral relations and people-to-people engagement. A Catalyst for Global Collaboration The visa exemption aligns with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of global integration and economic diversification as easier access to Europe will accelerate tourism growth, educational exchanges, and investment flows. Additionally, Farnaud reiterated Europe's enthusiasm for Saudi Arabia's transformative journey, citing shared aspirations for innovation and cross-cultural prosperity. This historic visa waiver marks a milestone in EU-Saudi relations, symbolizing trust and mutual respect. As Saudis embrace hassle-free European travel, both regions stand to benefit from strengthened partnerships and enriched cultural understanding. The world watches as two dynamic regions unite to shape a future of openness and collaboration. Short link : Post Views: 103
