An exhibition organized on the sidelines of the event featured a range of treasures, cultural landmarks and commercial products of at least 20 European countries for the first time under one roof in the Kingdom.

Khoja called on European and the Gulf institutions to boost cultural exchanges, friendly relations and understanding among people.

Khoja, after cutting the ribbon with head of the EU Delegation in Riyadh Luigi Narbone to mark the opening of the event, toured the photo exhibition and the pavilions of individual countries.

The exhibition featured 63 photos chosen from 20 EU member states, which were on display for the first time outside the EU under one roof.

The event was opened in the presence of Ambassadors Sir Tom Phillips of Britain, Bertrand Besancenot of France, Johannes Wimmer of Austria, Pablo Bravo of Spain, Jarno Syrjala of Finland, Velentino Simonetti of Italy and Ahmed A. Jawad of Sri Lanka.

The inaugural ceremony was followed by colorful cultural programs, including recitation of the EU anthem by French and German children as well as a music and dance skit presented by a troupe of young Saudi artists.

Referring to the need of cultural events like the European Days in Saudi Arabia, Khoja said "such occasions had a better impact on society, and they instill a sense of confidence and promote understanding in this turbulent world."

"Our heritage, literature and archaeology provide ample proof that the Arabian peninsula has had European influence, while European art and culture had indelible marks of Arab heritage and culture," he added.

"Besides culture, the relationship between the EU and Saudi Arabia and between the EU and the GCC has been growing in all sectors," said Narbone, adding that a joint action program agreed by the two blocs has laid emphasis on boosting cooperation in culture, tourism and education.

The cultural festival, organized by the EU Delegation in cooperation with the Riyadh-based embassies of the European countries, was open to the general public on Monday.

There was an all-day display of aerial photos titled "Europe Seen From the Sky" in the main theater of King Fahd Cultural Center.

In his documentary, author Sylvain Augier presents a selection of 100 marvelous places of Europe seen from the sky. An animated film for children titled "Azur and Asmar" was shown the whole day on Monday. The event in Riyadh coincides with the European Heritage Days being celebrated with great fanfare this month in several countries across Europe.