Arab Environment Forum unifies region on environmental issues

Arab Environment Forum unifies region on environmental issues
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Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli, center, tours the accompanying exhibition of the Arab Forum for Environment. (Loai Elkelawy/AN)
Arab Environment Forum unifies region on environmental issues
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The third Arab Forum for Environment, hosted this year by Saudi Arabia, kicked off in Riyadh on June 3 to discuss and to propose solutions for the looming and critical issues in the Arab region. (Loai Elkelawy/AN)
Arab Environment Forum unifies region on environmental issues
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AFEN also inaugurated its accompanying exhibition, with participants showcasing and highlighting their most prominent environmental projects, initiatives and latest technologies. (Loai Elkelawy/AN)
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Updated 04 June 2024
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Arab Environment Forum unifies region on environmental issues

Arab Environment Forum unifies region on environmental issues

RIYADH: The third Arab Forum for Environment, hosted this year by the Kingdom, was held in Riyadh from June 3-4 to discuss and propose solutions for the looming environmental issues in the Arab region.

It was held ahead of World Environment Day on June 5, which will also be hosted by the Kingdom this year alongside the UN Environment Program under the theme “Our land. Our future.”

The Arab League’s director of the department of environmental affairs and meteorology, Dr. Mahmoud Fath-Allah, said during opening remarks that Arab countries are among the most vulnerable worldwide to ecosystem damage, as 90 percent of areas in the region are classified as dry or extremely dry.

“We have all realized that the diversification of natural system services as a result of the continuing loss of natural resources and land degradation strengthens the region’s endeavors and its capabilities to achieve food security and human stability, which is why selecting the theme for the forum this year, ‘Land Rehabilitation to Enhance Resilience,’ reinforces the reality of cooperation and coordination with all international partners to repair our natural resources,” he said.

Represented by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the annual forum provided a platform for decisionmakers, experts and specialists within Arab countries to promote joint environmental action in the region.

Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdulrahman Al-Fadhli said in a speech: “The Kingdom has adopted a number of pioneering national initiatives, most notably the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, which aim to enhance regional cooperation to reduce land degradation, preserve vegetation, enhance biodiversity, food and water security, adapt to climate change and improve quality of life.

“The Kingdom also played a pivotal role in developing the global initiative to reduce land degradation and loss of wild habitats, and the platform initiative to accelerate research and development in the field of global coral reefs.”

The forum’s first panel discussion tackled the issue of land degradation and environmental challenges faced regionally and globally.

The session expanded on the issue within the framework of planetary challenges and the role of the Rio Conventions; the Arab region’s need to achieve Sustainable Development Goals; the most prominent outcomes of the sixth session of the UN Environment Assembly and their application within the Arab region; and Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental development by hosting COP16.

The next panel discussion discussed the importance of enhancing food and water security through sustainable food systems as well as management of water sources, reducing the effects of drought and proactive approaches to soil conservation.

The first day’s agenda concluded with the third session, “The Importance of Environmental Commitment in Preserving Terrestrial Ecosystems,” which provided insight on managing human development activities and reducing negative impacts on terrestrial ecosystems, legislation and environmental performance indicators; sustainable waste management to preserve terrestrial ecosystems; and using modern technologies to enhance environmental commitment.

The forum also inaugurated its accompanying exhibition in which national, regional, and international institutions from the public and private sectors as well as civil society showcased prominent environmental projects, initiatives and the latest technologies.


Riyadh International Book Fair fostering China, Saudi Arabia cultural exchange

The Riyadh International Book Fair opened on Thursday. (Supplied/@rybookfair/X)
The Riyadh International Book Fair opened on Thursday. (Supplied/@rybookfair/X)
Updated 01 October 2024
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Riyadh International Book Fair fostering China, Saudi Arabia cultural exchange

The Riyadh International Book Fair opened on Thursday. (Supplied/@rybookfair/X)
  • More Saudis interested in Chinese literature, say publishers
  • Chinese taught at schools is ‘important step’ to boost ties

RIYADH: Publishers are seeing a growing demand from readers in Saudi Arabia for Chinese literature as the two nations continue to strengthen cultural and political ties.

The Riyadh International Book Fair, which opened on Thursday, serves as a vital platform for connecting Saudi Arabia with the global community.

The event emphasizes the importance of translating international works into Arabic to foster cultural exchange, particularly with China.

A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)

A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic. It has already translated classics including “The Art of War” and “Three Kingdoms.”

Amr Moghith, the editorial manager of Bayt El-Hekma, said: “I see a demand from Saudis to learn the Chinese language. With every year, the demand for Chinese books increases.”

FASTFACTS

• Saudi Arabia has organized A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic.

• Saudi Arabia has organized several events to boost relations with China.

He added: “When the House of Wisdom Cultural Group was established, it was with the aim of building bridges between the Chinese and Arab cultures.

To foster cultural exchange, particularly with China, it is vital to translate international works into Arabic. (Supplied)

“This has been achieved cumulatively. Initially, the demand for Chinese literature was somewhat weak, although people were curious about Chinese culture, which has a rich history extending back over 5,000 years.”

Moghith said that while there are significant differences in the cultures of the Chinese and Arab worlds, the recent translations, both ways, have led to a surge in interest.

“The demand has become greater, especially since it brings together the Chinese and Arab cultures, which have had longstanding relations since the Silk Road,” he explained, referencing the ancient trade route.

To foster cultural exchange, particularly with China, it is vital to translate international works into Arabic. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)

He said Chinese was now being taught in Saudi schools. “This is an important step that helps many Saudis learn about Chinese culture.

“China wants to convey that it is not just a manufacturing or trading country, but a civilization with deep historical roots.

“It seeks to communicate with countries in the East and the Middle East, particularly given the old relations.”

A leading participant at the book fair is Bayt El-Hekma, an organization which specializes in translating Chinese literature into Arabic. (AN photo by Rahaf Jambi)

In addition, Bayt El-Hekma, which was established in Egypt in 2011, aims to enrich the understanding of Chinese culture among Arabic speakers and operates an academy for those eager to learn the language.

Saudi Arabia has organized several events to boost relations with China.

For instance, on Sept. 26, the Museums Commission inaugurated the exhibition “The Writings of Today Are a Promise for Tomorrow” at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art at Jax.

This event marks the first showcase of contemporary Chinese artists in Saudi Arabia.

It highlights the efforts of the Ministry of Culture and Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission to enhance cultural exchange.

 

 


Minister meets newly appointed Dominican ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Saud Al-Sati holds talks with Andy Rodriguez Duran in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Saud Al-Sati holds talks with Andy Rodriguez Duran in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 01 October 2024
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Minister meets newly appointed Dominican ambassador to Saudi Arabia

Saud Al-Sati holds talks with Andy Rodriguez Duran in Riyadh. (Supplied)
  • Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Consular Affairs Ali Al-Yousef received the Algerian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Sherif Walid

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Political Affairs Saud Al-Sati met on Tuesday with the newly appointed ambassador of the Dominican Republic to Saudi Arabia, Andy Rodriguez Duran.

Al-Sati welcomed him to the Kingdom and wished him success in his new duties. The two also discussed bilateral relations and other topics of common interest.

Also on Tuesday, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Consular Affairs Ali Al-Yousef received the Algerian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Sherif Walid. They discussed bilateral relations between the two countries and consular topics of shared concern.

 


Attorney general leads Saudi delegation at international prosecutors’ conference in Azerbaijan

Attorney general leads Saudi delegation at international prosecutors’ conference in Azerbaijan
Updated 01 October 2024
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Attorney general leads Saudi delegation at international prosecutors’ conference in Azerbaijan

Attorney general leads Saudi delegation at international prosecutors’ conference in Azerbaijan
  • Aside from prosecutors, delegates at the 3-day event include organizations that fight terrorism, human trafficking and other transnational crime

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s attorney general, Sheikh Saud Al-Mojeb, is leading a high-level delegation from the Kingdom at the 29th International Association of Prosecutors Conference, which began on Tuesday in Baku, Azerbaijan.

In addition to prosecutors from around the world, the participants at the three-day event include representatives of international organizations that combat terrorism, human trafficking and other transnational crime.

The Saudi delegation, which includes officials from the Public Prosecution and the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, will take part in global discussions about mutual legal assistance, extradition procedures, and the exchange of information to help enhance international cooperation in the field of criminal justice.

On the opening day of the conference, Al-Mojeb took part in meetings with counterparts from Austria, Croatia, Turkiye, Georgia, Malta, Kenya and Nepal. They discussed the importance of developing cooperative frameworks to address common challenges related to cross-border crime and criminal justice, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Saudi delegation also met a high-level team from South Korea’s Public Prosecution Office, during which they exchanged insights about the use of technology in criminal investigations, and discussed opportunities for further collaboration in justice-related fields.


Saudi Arabia updates regulations for temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services

Saudi Arabia updates regulations for temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services
Updated 01 October 2024
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Saudi Arabia updates regulations for temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services

Saudi Arabia updates regulations for temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services
  • The updated regulations outline clear timeframes required to complete visa-related procedures, enhancing governance and transparency

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced on Tuesday updates to the regulations governing temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services, Saudi Press Agency reported.

These changes, approved by the Saudi Cabinet in its session on Tuesday, will aim to provide more flexibility for the private sector, allowing businesses to better align visa needs with labor market demands and contribute to creating a more attractive work environment, SPA added.

One of the updates is the renaming of the seasonal work visa to the “temporary work visa for Hajj and Umrah services,” and extending the grace period for these visas from Shaban 15 until the end of Muharram (around Feb. 14 to July 25).

The new regulations will also address the needs of establishments operating during the Umrah season, by expanding their eligibility for temporary work visas.

The updated regulations outline clear timeframes required to complete visa-related procedures, enhancing governance and transparency.

In addition, the ministry emphasized the protection of both employers and employees by mandating that a signed employment contract be provided to both parties, and requiring medical insurance as a prerequisite for obtaining a visa through Saudi embassies and consulates abroad.

The new regulations will also introduce penalties aimed at preventing misuse of temporary work visas.

Businesses will now enjoy greater flexibility, with the option to extend visas for an additional 90 days and will no longer require endorsement when issuing temporary visas, streamlining the process.

These amendments are set to take effect 180 days after their approval, offering businesses time to adapt to the new system while ensuring that operations during the Hajj and Umrah seasons run smoothly.


NEOM unveils designs by Stefano Ricci for Sindalah Yacht Club

NEOM unveils designs by Stefano Ricci for Sindalah Yacht Club
Updated 01 October 2024
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NEOM unveils designs by Stefano Ricci for Sindalah Yacht Club

NEOM unveils designs by Stefano Ricci for Sindalah Yacht Club
  • Italian designer hails ‘visionary undertaking ahead of its time,’ saying project is a ‘jump into the future’

NEOM: Interior designs for the yacht club on NEOM’s first island destination, Sindalah, were unveiled on Tuesday ahead of the site’s opening later this year.

The Sindalah Yacht Club has been designed in collaboration with Stefano Ricci, and marks the Italian designer’s first foray into club interior design.

“As we place the finishing touches on NEOM’s inaugural island destination, we are thrilled to share with the world a behind-the-scenes look at what Sindalah will have to offer,” said Nicholas Smith, general manager of Sindalah.

“Our partnership with Stefano Ricci represents our dedication to enthralling future visitors and offering a truly premium experience for the world’s yachting enthusiasts,” he said.

The club will feature a terrace pool, lounge, and a fine-dining restaurant led by chef Enrico Bartolini, who restaurants around Italy have been awarded multiple Michelin stars.

With management by IGY Marinas, the yacht club will offer berthing for superyachts up to 180 meters in length.

The yacht club’s interior will be highlighted by white Carrara marble, complemented by accents of “Sindalah Blue” — a custom color inspired by the island’s surrounding waters — alongside briar-root wood surfaces, hand-woven textiles, and a coffered ceiling.

“I entered the Sindalah Yacht Club project because I believe that NEOM is a visionary undertaking ahead of its time, like Florence, which became the cradle of the Renaissance,” Ricci said.

“It’s a beautiful jump into the future that recalls our mission. As a Florentine designer, I hope to have conveyed the fine stylistic balance that ideally unites these two worlds.”