Saudi Cabinet welcomes UN request for ICJ opinion on Israel’s obligations

Saudi Cabinet welcomes UN request for ICJ opinion on Israel’s obligations
The Cabinet expressed gratitude for the positive stance of the countries that supported the resolution, Dec. 24 (SPA)
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Updated 24 December 2024
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Saudi Cabinet welcomes UN request for ICJ opinion on Israel’s obligations

Saudi Cabinet welcomes UN request for ICJ opinion on Israel’s obligations
  • UN General Assembly resolution was put forward by Norway
  • Advisory opinion from ICJ will clarify Israel’s obligations under international law

RIYADH: The Saudi Cabinet welcomed on Tuesday the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution requesting an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice on Israel’s obligations related to the presence and activities of the UN.

Last week, UN member states requested the World Court to act urgently, with 137 countries voting in favor, 12 against and 22 abstaining.

The resolution was put forward by Norway on behalf of a core group of 13 countries, including the Kingdom.

An advisory opinion from the ICJ will clarify Israel’s obligations under international law to ensure and facilitate the work of the UN, international organizations and third states in providing life-saving humanitarian assistance and basic services to the Palestinian civilian population.

The resolution and its adoption come after Israel’s Knesset passed a law in October banning the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East from operating in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

The Cabinet expressed gratitude for the positive stance of the countries that supported the resolution, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The Saudi Cabinet meeting, chaired by King Salman, also discussed the recent meeting between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani.

On Sudan, the Cabinet affirmed Saudi Arabia’s position to end the conflict in the country, stressing efforts to enhance humanitarian aid and seek a political future that secures Sudan’s stability, unity and sovereignty.

The Cabinet commended the hosting of the first Arab Cybersecurity Ministers Council in Riyadh this month, aimed at enhancing cooperation among Arab nations in cybersecurity and computer-related threats.

Domestically, the Cabinet recognized the progress made by government agencies in the digital transformation index for 2024 and their efforts to improve services to residents and visitors of the Kingdom.

Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary told SPA that the Cabinet praised the success of recent economic, cultural and media conferences and events in Riyadh, strengthening the city’s position as a global hub for science, knowledge, investment and innovation.


Head of Saudi National Center for Meteorology elected regional chair of global organization

Head of Saudi National Center for Meteorology elected regional chair of global organization
Updated 27 min 4 sec ago
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Head of Saudi National Center for Meteorology elected regional chair of global organization

Head of Saudi National Center for Meteorology elected regional chair of global organization
  • Ayman Salem Ghulam was chosen to lead the Asian branch of the World Meteorological Organization
  • He highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to efforts to improve meteorological and climate services, and address environmental challenges

JEDDAH: Ayman Salem Ghulam, the CEO of the Saudi National Center for Meteorology, was elected on Wednesday as the World Meteorological Organization’s regional chairperson for Asia.

He was chosen during the 18th session of the WMO’s Regional Association II — Asia by representatives of member states and bodies specializing in meteorology and climate services.

After his selection was confirmed, Ghulam highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to efforts to improve meteorological and climate services, and address urgent environmental challenges in Asia and worldwide, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Kingdom plans to introduce training programs and professional qualifications for people working in the field, and improve forecasting and monitoring infrastructure to benefit all members of the WMO, he added.

The Saudi National Center for Meteorology, which uses advanced atmospheric and climate-monitoring technologies for weather research and forecasting, was established in 2019. The World Meteorological Organization is a specialized UN agency responsible for promoting international cooperation on weather and climate-related activities.


Riyadh pavilion showcases Saudi literary, cultural diversity at Argentina book fair

Riyadh pavilion showcases Saudi literary, cultural diversity at Argentina book fair
Updated 23 April 2025
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Riyadh pavilion showcases Saudi literary, cultural diversity at Argentina book fair

Riyadh pavilion showcases Saudi literary, cultural diversity at Argentina book fair
  • Riyadh’s selection highlights the city’s growing role in the global cultural scene, as well as its commitment to fostering dialogue, embracing diversity, and using culture as a bridge for human connection and knowledge exchange

RIYADH: The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission launched the Riyadh pavilion at the 49th Buenos Aires International Book Fair in Argentina. 

Running from April 22 to May 12, the event features the Kingdom’s capital as guest of honor, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Riyadh’s selection highlights the city’s growing role in the global cultural scene, as well as its commitment to fostering dialogue, embracing diversity, and using culture as a bridge for human connection and knowledge exchange.

Saudi delegation includes representatives from the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, the Heritage Commission, and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs.

The King Fahd Glorious Qur’an Printing Complex, King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, King Abdulaziz Public Library, and King Fahad National Library are also taking part.

The Riyadh pavilion boosts Saudi cultural presence in Latin America, presenting the capital as a model of civilization aligned with Vision 2030. It features diverse literary and cultural content, including Spanish translations to foster cross-cultural understanding.

The launch was attended by Literature Commission CEO Abdullatif Alwasel, Buenos Aires Chief of Government Jorge Macri, Minister of Culture Gabriela Ricardes, and Fundacion El Libro President Christian Rainone.

During the fair, the Heritage Commission will highlight the richness of Saudi cultural heritage through global promotion and awareness efforts.

Its program includes live artisan demonstrations, panel discussions, and displays of archaeological replicas, along with publications documenting the Kingdom’s cultural legacy.

The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language is showcasing recent publications, including scientific books and research journals, emphasizing its role in enhancing linguistic knowledge.

It also highlights its work in language planning, computational linguistics, education, and cultural initiatives, alongside digital projects and tools.

The academy promotes Arabic publishing in new regions, encourages cultural and linguistic diversity, and fosters collaboration with communities interested in Arab culture.


Saudi ambassador to UK voted MENA diplomat of the year

Saudi ambassador to UK voted MENA diplomat of the year
Updated 23 April 2025
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Saudi ambassador to UK voted MENA diplomat of the year

Saudi ambassador to UK voted MENA diplomat of the year
  • Prince Khalid bin Bandar picked up his award at a ceremony in London attended by the diplomatic community

LONDON: Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the UK, Prince Khalid bin Bandar, has been named “Diplomat of the Year” for the Middle East and North Africa at a ceremony in London.

Prince Khalid was voted for by fellow diplomats representing more than 180 missions accredited to the UK, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The award, run by London-based “Diplomat Magazine,” recognizes ambassadors and diplomats who have made outstanding contributions to diplomatic work in the UK.

Prince Khalid was presented with the award during the magazine’s annual ceremony at London Hilton on Park Lane on Tuesday. The event was attended by ambassadors and high commissioners from more than 90 countries.


Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets German delegations

Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets German delegations
Updated 23 sec ago
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Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets German delegations

Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets German delegations

Mishaal Al-Sulami, the deputy speaker of the Shoura Council, met with a delegation of members from the Bundestag, the German federal parliament in Riyadh on Wednesday.

The German delegation was led by Tilman Kuban, and Thomas Volk, head of the Middle East and North Africa department at the Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung, during their visit to the Kingdom.

Al-Sulami welcomed the delegation, reflecting on the importance of strengthening and supporting relations between Saudi Arabia and Germany in all fields.

Kuban praised Saudi-German relations, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s pivotal and influential role in supporting stability and peace, both regionally and globally.


Saudi crown prince, Jordan’s king hold meeting in Jeddah

Saudi crown prince, Jordan’s king hold meeting in Jeddah
Updated 23 April 2025
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Saudi crown prince, Jordan’s king hold meeting in Jeddah

Saudi crown prince, Jordan’s king hold meeting in Jeddah
  • King Abdullah expressed pride in historical relations between Riyadh and Amman
  • Two leaders discussed recent developments in the region, particularly situation in Gaza Strip

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met Jordan’s King Abdullah II on Wednesday during an official visit to Saudi Arabia.

King Abdullah arrived in Jeddah, accompanied by Crown Prince Hussein, and was received by the deputy governor of Makkah, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

King Abdullah expressed pride in the historical relations between Riyadh and Amman during his meeting with the crown prince, the Petra news agency reported. He acknowledged the significant role of Saudi Arabia in supporting Arab and Islamic causes.

The two leaders discussed recent developments in the region, particularly the situation in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, Petra added.

Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Crown Prince Hussein and Director of the Jordanian King’s Office Alaa Batayneh attended the meeting.