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Leaders
2 days ago
- Politics
- Leaders
INTERVIEW: Saudi Vision 2030 and Morocco's Development Model Align, Says Moroccan Amb. on Throne Day
By: Muhammed Amin Zahran Muhammed Amin Zahran Moroccan embassies worldwide have recently marked the 26th anniversary of King Mohammed VI's accession to the throne, known as 'Throne Day.' In Saudi Arabia, the Moroccan Embassy, headed by Dr. Mustafa Al-Mansouri, hosted a special celebration to commemorate this national occasion. In an interview held on the sidelines of celebrations, the Moroccan Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, talked more about the traditions of Throne Day, as well as the strong economic ties between both countries and the investment opportunities Morocco offers to Saudi investors. What does the celebration of the 26th anniversary of His Majesty King Mohammed VI's accession to the throne symbolize for Moroccans, particularly the Moroccan community in Saudi Arabia? The celebration of Throne Day represents a momentous national occasion that depicts pride and honor in the King's visionary leadership. Since his accession, His Majesty has launched prominent transformative strategies and flagship projects that have significantly modernized state institutions and promoted both economic and social development. This anniversary also carries profound national and spiritual meaning for all segments of the Moroccan people, including our community residing in Saudi Arabia. It goes beyond celebration to embody loyalty, belonging, and the deep cohesion between the throne and the people. Moroccans abroad mark this occasion by reaffirming their strong bond with the homeland and pride in the accomplishments realized under the wise leadership of His Majesty the King. In this context, the Cultural Palace in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter hosted an outstanding celebration on July 30, 2025, to mark this cherished national occasion. Organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Saudi Arabia, the ceremony witnessed the attendance of prominent figures from both nations. The celebration was graced by the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Governor of the Riyadh Region. In the light of this, the event perfectly mirrored the depth of the fraternal and historical ties between the two kingdoms and depicted the spirit of mutual respect and appreciation shared by their wise leaderships. How did the Moroccan Embassy in Riyadh celebrate this occasion and what activities did it organize? To mark this occasion, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Riyadh, along with the Consulate General in Jeddah, hosted high-level national and diplomatic events. The celebrations brought together their highnesses, excellencies, members of the diplomatic corps, as well as representatives from Saudi Arabia's economic, cultural, and media sectors, alongside members of the Moroccan community residing in the Kingdom. Notably, the ceremonies featured official speeches underscoring Morocco's major strategic achievements under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI across the political, economic, and social spheres. The speeches also commended the deep-rooted relations between Morocco and Saudi Arabia — an extraordinary model of solidarity, integration, and coordination between the two wise leaderships. Moreover, the ceremonies boasted a wide range of documentaries showcasing Morocco's landmark development projects, standing as a testament to the country's ongoing efforts in reform and modernization. The celebrations also included a reception held in honor of the attendees, featuring a fine selection of authentic Moroccan cuisine. The event was filled with warmth, loyalty, and collective pride in this deeply cherished national occasion, which holds a special visible place in the hearts of all Moroccans. On this joyous occasion, I would like, on my own behalf and on behalf of all members of the diplomatic and consular mission, to express our deepest gratitude and sincerest appreciation to the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, represented by the Diplomatic Quarter Office, for their unwavering support and valued assistance, which played a pivotal role in the success of this celebration held at the Cultural Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh on July 30, 2025. How does the Moroccan community in Saudi Arabia express their pride in this national occasion? The Moroccan community in Saudi Arabia has showed a role model of deepest sense of loyalty and national pride through active participation in marking the 26th anniversary of Throne Day. By actively participating in the cultural and social programs organized by the Moroccan Embassy to mark the occasion, the Moroccan community showcased their strong ties to their homeland. The ceremonies featured the raising of national flags and the singing of the national anthem, offering distinctive vibes of pride and honor in their Moroccan identity and in the strategic achievements realized under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The ceremony, hosted by the Moroccan Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah, drew a large turnout from the Moroccan community. The attendees voiced their pride in Morocco's developmental achievements and stressed their unwavering dedication to serving national causes, preserving the Kingdom's supreme interests, and representing their homeland honorably in their country of residence, in line with the values of citizenship, openness, and national cohesion. Crucially, this wide participation stands as a testament to the profound humanitarian and fraternal bonds between the Moroccan and Saudi peoples, embodying a spirit of solidarity and mutual cooperation within the framework of the strong and enduring relations that unite the two sister kingdoms. On this occasion, what is your message to Moroccan citizens residing in Saudi Arabia? On behalf of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Riyadh, and in my personal capacity, I am pleased to extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes to all members of the Moroccan community residing in Saudi Arabia on the occasion of the glorious Throne Day. On this precious national occasion, we stress our deep pride and appreciation for the exceptional image that the Moroccan community projects abroad, depicting the highest values of loyalty, belonging, as well as genuine citizenship. We further urge all members of the Moroccan community residing in Saudi Arabia to remain steadfast in upholding the values of national belonging, to continue contributing to the boosting of the bonds of brotherhood and cooperation with our sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and to serve as an essential bridge of rapprochement and mutual understanding between our two brotherly peoples. What are the key investment opportunities and main areas of economic cooperation between Morocco and Saudi Arabia? Economic relations between Morocco and Saudi Arabia are generally known for their breadth and diversity, covering several strategic sectors such as renewable energy, food industries, tourism, modern technology, and infrastructure. This wide scope reflects the shared commitment of both kingdoms to establishing a sustainable and mutually beneficial model of economic cooperation. Importantly, the July 2025 visit of a high-level delegation from the Federation of Saudi Chambers to Morocco represented a significant milestone in fostering bilateral economic cooperation. Furthermore, the visit featured the signing of several investment partnership agreements and unleashed new horizons for discussions on establishing direct sea and air routes between the two countries, as well as exchanging expertise in industry and technological innovation. This growing momentum mirrors both sides' pride in the promising investment opportunities available in their countries. It also highlights their shared dedication to forging balanced economic partnerships that align with their development aspirations and advance the integration of their strategic visions. Looking ahead, the preparations for Morocco's hosting of the 2030 World Cup and Saudi Arabia's hosting of the 2034 World Cup are set to unleash new horizons for economic cooperation and joint projects with regional and global impact, further strengthening both countries' roles as key engines of development and stability in the region. In what ways does Saudi Vision 2030 align with Morocco's development strategies across various investment sectors? Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Morocco's New Development Model converge on various strategic objectives, particularly the pursuit of a diversified and sustainable economy that ensures both social justice and environmental sustainability. This alignment mirrors the shared commitment of both countries to accelerating development by enhancing key sectors such as industry, renewable energy, digital transformation, and by increasing mutual investment opportunities. Both Saudi Vision 2030 and Morocco's New Development Model set the empowerment of the private sector as a top priority, by providing an attractive investment climate, empowering entrepreneurship and startups, and driving job creation — all of which contribute to boosting sustainable economic growth. In addition, both visions prioritize the development of human capital by developing education and training systems, promoting skills to meet the evolving demands of the labor market, and broadening opportunities for professional integration and personal growth, specifically among youth. Therefore, this convergence of visions and approaches offers fertile ground for signing strategic partnerships between the two kingdoms, partnerships that serve the interests of both nations and their brotherly peoples. It also depicts a spirit of cooperation, integration, and joint action aimed at fulfilling sustainable economic and social development at both the national and regional levels. What incentives and facilitative measures does the Moroccan government provide to support Saudi investors? Morocco stands out as a captivating investment hub, offering a stable and attractive business environment, underpinned by political stability, ongoing economic reforms, as well as progressive legislation. To make this environment more appealing to investors, the Moroccan government provides a vast array of facilities and incentives to investors—notably Saudi investors, who serve as strategic partners in advancing the Kingdom's development agenda. These incentives include specialized and well-equipped industrial zones, attractive tax advantages, and world-class infrastructure spanning ports, airports, highways, telecommunications, and energy networks. Likewise, the Kingdom offers strong institutional support through regional investment centers, advisory and monitoring mechanisms, and simplified administrative procedures, ensuring faster project implementation and higher returns for investors. This strategic orientation embodies Morocco's commitment to fostering its economic partnership with its sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and to strengthening cooperation across diverse sectors—ranging from industry, agriculture, and tourism to renewable energy, financial services, and other high value-added fields. Looking ahead, these facilities are set to unlock new horizons for Saudi investments in Morocco, bolstering economic integration between the two nations while advancing their shared development aspirations and boosting the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity that unites their leaderships and peoples. Related Topics: Saudi Arabia, Morocco Deepen Ties with New Tax Agreement Exclusive: Mayor of Riyadh Celebrates Morocco National Day at Embassy Saudi Arabia, Morocco Boost Health Cooperation with New MoU Short link : Post Views: 48
Arab News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Riyadh to celebrate Saudi Arabia-Japan diplomatic relations with free cultural event
RIYADH: Riyadh will celebrate the 70th anniversary of Saudi Arabia-Japan diplomatic relations with a special Japan Festival scheduled for Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. The two-day free event will highlight Japanese culture with traditional performances, hands-on workshops, tourism experiences, and corporate booths. A special performance featuring a traditional type of Japanese theater will take place at the event. More performance details are expected to be announced soon, according to the Japanese embassy in Saudi Arabia. The event will be held at Riyadh's Cultural Palace. • This article also appears on Arab News Japan
Arab News
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Thai festival brings eruption of color and music to Riyadh
RIYADH: The Thai Festival in the Cultural Palace in Riyadh's Diplomatic Quarter celebrates both Thailand's rich culture and its blossoming friendship with Saudi Arabia. Riyadh was chosen as one of six flagship cities around the world to hold the festival, alongside Washington DC, Beijing, New Delhi, Hanoi, and Paris. At a press conference prior to the festival, which is open to the public May 2 and 3, Thailand's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Darm Boontham said: 'This is a proud moment for us and a great opportunity to share the rich tradition and modern creativity of Thailand with our Saudi friends.' The festival comes at a significant time, three years since the normalization of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. • This year's theme is 'The Pulse of Tradition, The Pulse of Tomorrow,' reflecting Thailand's pride in its culture and its commitment to innovation and creativity. • The ministers of culture for Thailand and Saudi Arabia — Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol and Prince Badr bin Abdullah Al-Saud — attended the event. 'This event is a celebration of the strong and growing friendship between our countries and our people,' Boontham continued. This year's theme is 'The Pulse of Tradition, The Pulse of Tomorrow,' reflecting Thailand's pride in its culture and its commitment to innovation and creativity. The festival features several exhibitions of Thai products and services, including handicrafts from local communities in Thailand, live demonstrations, health and wellness products, eco-tourism, and Thai cuisine. It also includes a live cooking show by a celebrity Thai chef, screenings of several beloved Thai movies followed by Q&A sessions, a musical and cultural performance, a Muay Thai boxing demonstration, a fashion show by Thai designers, and a Khon performance. Khon, a traditional masked dramatic art that features music and dance as well as ritual, literary, and handicraft components, is included on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list, Boontham said. 'We invite everyone, Saudi nationals, residents and all friends of Thailand to join us for this unique celebration, to enjoy the science of sound and taste of Thailand and to continue building a warm and lasting friendship between our two great nations.' The festival was organized by the Royal Thai Embassy in Saudi Arabia in partnership with Thailand's private and public sectors, including Thai supply chain company SGC International's Riyadh division, with the support of Saudi and Thai private companies. The ministers of culture for Thailand and Saudi Arabia — Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol and Prince Badr bin Abdullah Al-Saud — attended the event. The objective of the festival goes beyond tourism, the ambassador said, it is intended to promote everything Thailand can offer in terms of creative economy, innovation, and how Thailand can tap into Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom's green initiative. Boontham also confirmed plans to create Thai AirAsia X, a new low-cost airline from Thailand that should operate flights from Riyadh to Bangkok 'very soon,' he said. According to Boontham, the largest developing areas of cooperation between the two nations are economy, trade, and investment. Over the last three years, the volume of trade has increased by an average of 25 percent and the ambassador is confident that 'all the necessary mechanisms' are in place to support further growth. In 2024, trade reached a value of $8.8 billion and the hope is that in two years that number will reach $10 billion, he added. Boontham cited SGC International, a Thai company known for construction materials that is now expanding into petrochemicals, food, and food processing as a sign of promising investment in Saudi Arabia. Technology sharing, in areas including green consumption technology, is 'quite prevalent' and shows promise, he added. Tourism is another large area of cooperation. Last year, around 230,000 Saudi tourists visited Thailand, and 13,000 Thai tourists visited Saudi Arabia; both numbers are expected to grow in coming years, the ambassador noted. According to Boontham, 'many Thai students' are coming to pursue their studies in Saudi as well, and Thailand is working hard to encourage more Saudis to study in Thailand. In hospitality education, especially, 'Thailand has a lot to offer Saudi students,' Boontham said. In 2024, 50 individuals from Saudi Arabia went to train in Thai hotels and institutions.
Arab News
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Launch of Cinamaa platform marks push for film studies in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: The Saudi Film Commission has introduced a new initiative, Cinamaa, to promote film studies and support people entering the industry. A launch event was held on Wednesday at the Cultural Palace in Riyadh, hosted by the commission and National Film Archive. The Cinamaa website, a platform intended to help educate aspiring filmmakers, critics, and film enthusiasts, allowing them to share their work, gives users access to articles, research studies, discussions, workshops, and short films on various topics related to film. Following a panel discussion in which she spoke on the importance of film studies in academia, Salma Tarek, professor of literature at the University of Cairo's French language department, told Arab News: 'We need to distinguish between academic studies, meaning university-level education, and studies at film institutes, which aim to train technicians and filmmakers.' The latter is very important and widely available, she said, but cinema studies at the school and university levels are still lacking. 'Abroad, for example, children in elementary school have reading and literacy programs that include a section on how to 'read' a film. They learn what a shot is, what camera movement means, because these have become part of the basic language of how we interpret the world around us,' Tarek said. 'Cinema is no longer just an art form; it is a form of discourse. We are constantly exposed to it, and it's very important that we learn how to decode its messages.' Tarek said that these are messages that are constantly being sent to viewers, who must receive them in an open and thoughtful way. 'The university is the institution best suited to play this role.' When asked what can be done to push this agenda forward, the professor said that first, there must be conviction in the value of cinema studies, a task she said is 'not simple.' The entry point, however, is in interdisciplinary studies. 'For example, literature departments can offer courses on the relationship between performance art and cinema. In history departments, there can be a course on cinema and history. Gradually, these borders will open up, and we will start to develop a cinematic culture within academic institutions.' These institutions will then have the capabilities and foundation to establish dedicated departments for cinema studies, which Tarek said is the 'ultimate goal.' The panel also discussed the need for more original Arabic content in addition to translations of foreign films. Tareq Al-Khawaji, film critic and cultural adviser at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, said that young Saudis interested in screenplay writing have a great opportunity to develop scripts that can contribute to bolstering the cinematic scene in the Kingdom. The launch of Cinamaa was followed by the signing of two memoranda of understanding between the Saudi Film Commission and its partners, the Saudi Broadcasting Authority and the International Federation of Film Critics. The commission's CEO Abdullah Al-Qahtani took the stage with Mohammed Fahad Al-Harthi, SBA CEO and former editor in chief of Arab News, and Fipresci CEO Ahmad Shawky. The establishment of the Cinema Critics Association was also announced, the first independent professional entity dedicated to film criticism in Saudi. At the end of the night, the doors opened to welcome guests into an exhibition on film history in the Arab world.
Jordan Times
03-03-2025
- Sport
- Jordan Times
Prime minister inspects Al Hussein Youth City, orders sports facility upgrades
Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Sunday inspects sports facilities and infrastructure at Al Hussein Youth City as part of efforts to upgrade them in line with Royal directives (Petra photo) AMMAN — Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Sunday inspected sports facilities and infrastructure at Al Hussein Youth City as part of efforts to upgrade them in line with Royal directives. The prime minister instructed the Ministry of Youth to draft a detailed plan, in coordination with relevant ministries and authorities, outlining the necessary priorities for maintaining the city's facilities. Hassan also said that the plan should align with available resources, ensuring that maintenance work is completed as swiftly as possible, he added, according to a Prime Ministry statement. The targeted facilities include the Cultural Palace, Amman International Stadium, Prince Rashid Hall, Prince Hamzah Hall, and the Olympic Swimming Pool, with the goal of completing renovations within the current year and 2026. The prime minister also underscored the need to sustain all facilities to ensure their sustainability and readiness to host local and international sports events in the best possible manner. During the visit, the prime minister, accompanied by the minister of youth, toured the various facilities of Al Hussein Youth City. At the end of January, His Majesty King Abdullah directed the government to establish a new international football stadium to support the sports sector while also enhancing the facilities of Al Hussein Youth City, Jordan's first sports city, alongside continued development of other sports infrastructure across the Kingdom.
