Saudi Arabia is an ‘indispensable partner,’ says British ambassador

Saudi Arabia is an ‘indispensable partner,’ says British ambassador
Ambassador to the United Kingdom Neil Crompton at his residence in Riyadh. (AN photo)
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Updated 11 December 2024
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Saudi Arabia is an ‘indispensable partner,’ says British ambassador

Saudi Arabia is an ‘indispensable partner,’ says British ambassador
  • UK prime minister says clean energy projects will create more jobs in both Kingdoms

RIYADH: “It is a historical relationship,” said British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton, describing Saudi-UK ties in a new interview with Arab News.

British Prime Minster Keir Starmer made his first visit to Saudi Arabia this week to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discuss areas of cooperation with some of the Kingdom’s industry leaders.

Both the prime minister and the crown prince want to modernize the relationship, Crompton said.

“I have been here nearly five years, and I have just seen the areas of cooperation expand, in part because there is so much happening in the Kingdom … All the different things (Saudi Arabia is) trying to do — tourism, innovation, artificial intelligence, sport — these are all natural areas where the UK can work with you.”

The prime minister’s top priority is encouraging economic growth in the UK, Crompton added, a goal that is reflected in the Saudi government’s own aspirations to grow its economy and improve the quality of life of its citizens.

“Like Saudi Arabia, we are free traders,” he said. “The more UK investment there is in Saudi Arabia, the better it is for Saudi and our investors, and the more Saudi investment there is in the UK, the better is for our economies.”

Crompton said that both leaders are pursuing a UK-Gulf Cooperation Council free trade agreement and hoping to get it finalized as soon as possible.

“The Gulf countries are on the move; they’re all booming,” he added. “Saudi (gross domestic product) has grown 70 percent since Vision 2030 was launched in 2016. That’s impressive.”

Major talking points of discussions with Starmer included partnerships in clean energy and moving his Plan for Change forward.

Green energy projects in both countries have created over 4,000 additional jobs, the UK government reported.

In partnership with NEOM, Graphene Innovation Manchester has announced the launch of the world’s first commercial production of graphene-enriched carbon fiber.

The project strives to generate £250 million ($318 million) in investment in research and innovation in the Greater Manchester region and create more than 1,000 skilled jobs.

Further uplifting the green energy partnerships between the two Kingdoms, Starmer said: “Oxford-based private equity fund HYCAP is supporting Saudi Arabia’s plans to reach net zero emissions by 2060 by investing £785 million to develop hydrogen mobility clusters in Northern Ireland and across the UK, creating more than 1,000 jobs.”

The project will deliver critical elements of hydrogen production and distribution while removing 25 million tonnes of transport-related CO2 over its duration.

The UK and Saudi Arabia are also working to create a new Joint International Institute for Clean Hydrogen, backed by several Saudi and British universities, with Newcastle University playing a leading role.

UK Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Edward Miliband said: “This is the government’s Plan for Change in action, to make us a clean energy superpower and deliver a decade of renewal.”

In early December, UK leading carbon capture technology company Carbon Clean signed a collaboration deal with Saudi Aramco for innovation in modular carbon capture technology, hoping to create 2,000 jobs in the UK.

Additionally, UK-based sustainable cement company Next Generation SCM and Saudi Arabia-based company City Cement partnered to produce and supply 2.5 million tonnes of sustainable cement and concrete a year. Over the next five years, this partnership is expected to drive £200 million in investment and create over 200 jobs in both Saudi and the UK.

“Saudis historically like to invest, but a lot of the investment went into London, which is good. But I think, when we invest in different parts of Saudi Arabia, and when Saudi Arabia invests in different parts of the UK, that’s good for both countries and good for both peoples,” Crompton said.

“It shows in the sense that the economic relationship extends beyond the two capitals.”

Another highlight of the British prime minister’s visit was the promotion of cultural heritage for both nations.

The Saudi Heritage Commission is in the middle of finalizing a new deal with Historic England, a public body of the British government, for cooperation and knowledge-sharing between experts from both countries on preserving cultural landmarks.

The Royal Commission for AlUla will also collaborate with UK entities — the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport and the Department for Business and Trade — to increase visitor numbers to 2 million tourists per year by 2035 and upskill the local people through training programs.

Starmer said in a statement: “I’m pleased the UK is forging new partnerships with Saudi Arabia to protect the cultural heritage of AlUla by harnessing British expertise. Through deeper economic ties with key partners such as Saudi Arabia, we can unlock growth and new opportunities both at home and abroad to deliver change that is felt by working people in the UK.”

Cooperation in defense and security was also strongly emphasized by Starmer during his visit to the Kingdom.

“We have a shared history, and part of our shared history is recognition that Saudi Arabia is a key diplomatic partner, not just in the Arab world, but in the Islamic world. I think it has a neutral ability to bridge gaps both between East and West and North and South,” Crompton said.

Crompton explained that Saudi Arabia is an “indispensable partner” for discussing international issues and a “key partner” in de-escalating conflicts in the Middle East and getting to a two-state solution between Palestine and Israel.

Starmer said the UK will play a more active role in the region and work to strengthen defense cooperation across land, sea, space, air, and cyber threats.

He has also announced £11 million in funding for humanitarian aid in Syria, hoping to meet the needs of the 370,000 people estimated to have been recently displaced.

Starmer said: “From cutting the cost of living for hardworking British people to building resilient supply chains or supporting communities in Britain, what happens in the Middle East matters at home.

“That is why we are strengthening our defense partnership with Saudi Arabia, protecting the most vulnerable in Syria, supporting our partners in Lebanon and working with the international community to push for a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, secure the return of all hostages and accelerate aid into Gaza.”

It was recently revealed by the British Chamber of Commerce that Israel’s war on Gaza has impacted 50 percent of UK businesses.

The UK will also provide the Lebanese Armed Forces with a large assistance package in the form of training and equipment in support of the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel.

On furthering international cooperation, Crompton said that KSrelief, the Saudi Fund for Development, and the UK pledge to spend $100 million between them each year on joint development projects in Africa.


Crown prince and Brazilian president discuss strengthening ties

Crown prince and Brazilian president discuss strengthening ties
Updated 9 sec ago
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Crown prince and Brazilian president discuss strengthening ties

Crown prince and Brazilian president discuss strengthening ties
  • During the conversation, the two leaders reviewed the strong relations between the Kingdomand Brazil

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a phone call on Monday from Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

During the conversation, the two leaders reviewed the strong relations between Saudi Arabia and Brazil and emphasized their commitment to further developing cooperation across various fields.

Discussions also encompassed a range of topics of mutual interest, highlighting the shared vision for addressing global and regional challenges and both leaders reaffirmed their countries' dedication to fostering collaboration that benefits their respective nations and contributes to global progress, SPA added.


Glimpses of Saudi history: Past times in the northern region have left footprints on the landscape

Glimpses of Saudi history: Past times in the northern region have left footprints on the landscape
Updated 14 January 2025
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Glimpses of Saudi history: Past times in the northern region have left footprints on the landscape

Glimpses of Saudi history: Past times in the northern region have left footprints on the landscape
  • On the northeast side of Sakaka is the Camel Site where one can see carved images of animals — mostly camels — said to be about 7,000-7,200 years old

RIYADH: When one thinks of Saudi Arabia, the first things that spring to mind might be the bustling metropolises of Riyadh and Jeddah, or sacred Islamic sites like the Holy Kaaba in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

But by venturing further, one can uncover a land rich with history and mystery, particularly in the country’s northern expanses. Often overlooked by tourists, the region is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes and a past waiting to be explored.

Hail city is located in the northern of Najed and is famous for its monuments, especially in cities such as Jubbah and As Shwimes. (Supplied)

Among them is the Hail province, located in the north of Najd and famous for its monuments, especially in Jubbah and Shuwaymis.

Hussain Al-Khalifah, a Saudi archeologist with more than 30 years of experience, spoke to Arab News about some of the area’s hidden gems.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Al-Shuwaihatiya, 45 km from Sakaka, is one of the oldest archeological sites in the world and considered the oldest human settlement site in the Arabian Peninsula and Asia.

• On the northeast side of Sakaka is the Camel Site where one can see carved images of animals — mostly camels — said to be about 7,000-7,200 years old.

“There are mountains called Al-Raat and Al-Manjor. These two sites contain the oldest rock art ever immortalized on rocks … wonderful images of animals and lions (carved),” he said.

AlShuwaihatiyah is unique in the world with its Oldowan tools, which are stone tools used by humans millions of years ago. (Supplied)

“These two mountains are registered by UNESCO as a rock art site. It is somehow a form of continuous rock art, starting from Shuwaymis moving to Jubbah and ending at Al-Tawil mountain in Jouf.”

Al-Khalifah explained this art form spread to two other cities through migration thousands of years ago. In ancient times, he suggested, people migrated from Hail to Dumat Al-Jandal and Tayma.

AlShuwaihatiyah is the second oldest archaeological site in the world and is the oldest human settlement site in the Arabian Peninsula and Asia. (Supplied)

Another area near Hail worth discovering is Fayd. This city is at the center of the Hajj road known by locals as Darb Zubaidah, along which people used to travel from Kufa in Iraq to Madinah.

“Fayd is considered one of the important points in the area. It is one of the prettiest destinations, known for its rich Islamic history,” Al-Khalifah said. “It is worth it for me to get in my car and take a trip from Riyadh to explore this place.”

Hail city is located in the northern of Najed and is famous for its monuments, especially in cities such as Jubbah and As Shwimes. (Supplied)

Jouf Province is also ripe for exploration, with Al-Shuwaihatiya, 45 km from Sakaka, among the recommended areas for visitors.

It is one of the oldest archeological sites in the world and considered the oldest human settlement site in the Arabian Peninsula and Asia. According to Al-Khalifah, its history dates back 1.3 million years.

This city is unique, he said, with its Oldowan tools — stone tools used by humans millions of years ago. He recommends making the most of the experience by visiting with an expert who knows the area’s history.

On the northeast side of Sakaka is the Camel Site where one can see carved images of animals — mostly camels — said to be about 7,000-7,200 years old.

“This spot is one of my discoveries, but to visit this location it requires a permit from the Heritage Commission because it is being monitored by environmental security,” explained Al-Khalifah.

Whether you are an adventurer, history buff or cultural enthusiastic, Saudi Arabia’s northern region is the place to go to go.

 


Asir reeling in rich Red Sea fish yields

In Asir, a key government initiative involves transferring expertise from veteran fishermen to younger ones. (SPA)
In Asir, a key government initiative involves transferring expertise from veteran fishermen to younger ones. (SPA)
Updated 13 January 2025
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Asir reeling in rich Red Sea fish yields

In Asir, a key government initiative involves transferring expertise from veteran fishermen to younger ones. (SPA)
  • Supported by Saudi authorities, local fishermen haul in record revenue of $41m

RIYADH: Along Asir’s sun-drenched coastline, a remarkable surge in fish production has transformed the region into a bustling hub of marine activity.

With an annual yield exceeding 4,000 tonnes worth over SR155 million ($41 million) in 2024, this growth is testament to the region’s rich marine biodiversity.

It is also the result of the strategic initiatives and programs implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

In Asir, a key government initiative involves transferring expertise from veteran fishermen to younger ones. (SPA)

The director of the ministry’s branch in Asir, Ahmed Al-Majthal, said the region’s coastal areas are key economic assets, citing the rich marine environment and high-quality fish stocks.

“The ministry’s Asir branch has developed a plan to further boost production to 6,000 tonnes, valued at SR165 million, within the next three years,” Al-Majthal told SPA in an interview.

Regarding government backing for the fishing industry, he noted the presence of 126 operational boats along the Asir coast.

NUMBER

$41m

In Asir, the annual yield of fish production exceeded 4,000 tonnes worth over SR155 million ($41 million) in 2024.

Support is also provided to independent Saudi fishermen using private boats, with 35 additional vessels to be distributed in the near future.

Asir's coastline spans approximately 140 km along the Red Sea, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and resort islands like Kedumbel. (SPA)

A key initiative involves transferring expertise from veteran fishermen to younger ones. Already, 85 experienced fishermen are mentoring those entering the profession, he added.

The ministry recently organized the inaugural fish and marine heritage festival, the SPA noted. The festival featured 39 booths showcasing diverse seafood varieties, alongside the participation of families working in local cottage industries, government agencies, and civil society institutions.

The event included awareness and educational programs, demonstrations of fishing techniques, sea trips, boat races, and traditional folkloric performances.

Asir’s coastline stretches approximately 140 km along the Red Sea, encompassing diverse marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, and tourist islands such as Kedumbel.

 


Saudi crown prince receives Greek PM in AlUla

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis in AlUla on Monday. (SPA)
Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis in AlUla on Monday. (SPA)
Updated 13 January 2025
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Saudi crown prince receives Greek PM in AlUla

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman receives Greek PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis in AlUla on Monday. (SPA)
  • Prince Mohammed and Mitsotakis chaired Saudi-Greek Strategic Partnership Council
  • Hegra features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the winter camp in AlUla on Monday, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The two leaders discussed relations between their countries and ways of developing cooperation in various fields.

They also exchanged views on regional and international developments of concern and efforts made with regard to them.

Prince Mohammed and Mitsotakis also chaired the Saudi-Greek Strategic Partnership Council during which a number of topics were reviewed.

Earlier on Monday, Mitsotakis visited the historic Hegra region in AlUla.

The Hegra Archaeological Site is the first World Heritage property to be inscribed in Saudi Arabia. It is the largest conserved site of the civilization of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan.

Hegra features well-preserved monumental tombs with decorated facades dating from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD.

Mitsotakis visited Qasr Al-Farid, a tomb constructed around the 1st century CE, and Qasr Al-Bint, the most famous necropolis in Hegra. He also visited Mount Athlab, one of the main attractions in the AlUla region.


Deputy FM meets Canadian foreign ministry official in Riyadh

Deputy FM meets Canadian foreign ministry official in Riyadh
Updated 13 January 2025
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Deputy FM meets Canadian foreign ministry official in Riyadh

Deputy FM meets Canadian foreign ministry official in Riyadh
  • They reviewed ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries and other topics of common interest

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed Elkhereiji met with Alexander Leveque, assistant deputy minister for Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb at the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Riyadh on Monday.

During the meeting, they reviewed ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries and other topics of common interest, the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Abdullatif Al-Asheikh received Turkiye’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Emrullah Isler in Riyadh on Monday, and they held talks on various topics of common interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.