Saudi coffee forum to review economic, social aspects of sustainability

In Saudi Arabia, coffee is heavily associated with generational hospitality and generosity, providing a direct link to the country's cultures. (SPA)
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Updated 25 September 2022
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Saudi coffee forum to review economic, social aspects of sustainability

  • The forum will be discussing four main aspects through the talks: “Coffee as a National Wealth,” “Coffee: Culture and Society,” “Coffee and the Humanization of Environment,” and “Coffee and Health”

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture is organizing the Saudi Coffee Sustainability Forum in Jazan from Oct. 1-2 to discuss the value chain of Saudi coffee and relevant economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability.

The forum is part of the activities of the 2022 “Year of Saudi Coffee” initiative, which is supported by the Quality of Life Program.

Saudi Arabia is one of the world’s largest consumers of coffee, and achieving self-sufficiency in its production, in accordance with the plans of Vision 2030 to diversify the country’s economy, is considered vital.

The forum will be discussing four main aspects through the talks: “Coffee as a National Wealth,” “Coffee: Culture and Society,” “Coffee and the Humanization of Environment,” and “Coffee and Health.”

The forum will include an accompanying exhibition to review the efforts and plans of stakeholders in the Saudi coffee field, in addition to several specialized workshops targeting workers in the coffee industry, including researchers, policymakers, labor market experts, environment experts and health and nutrition experts.

The Ministry of Culture, through this event, seeks to elevate the status of Saudi coffee as an icon of the Kingdom’s heritage, share relevant scientific research, activate cooperation with international stakeholders and benefit from their expertise, and address challenges and review best practices related to Saudi coffee and the requirements for its sustainability.

 


Madinah governor inspects pilgrim services ahead of Hajj

Updated 13 sec ago
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Madinah governor inspects pilgrim services ahead of Hajj

RIYADH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan on Monday visited the Welcome and Reception Center for Pilgrims on the Hijrah route to inspect the services offered to pilgrims and the preparations made to receive those who are coming to perform the Hajj rituals this year.

He also reviewed the center’s workflow, ensuring it guarantees the comfort of pilgrims and the expeditious completion of procedures related to the services provided to them, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Salman, who is also chairman of the Hajj and Visit Committee in the region, inspected the workflow mechanism and services provided to pilgrims arriving from King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port, as well as those visiting Madinah after completing the rituals.

He also examined the center’s operational indicators, which automatically monitor arrivals and groupings, along with the plan to enhance the service system through screens monitoring bus arrivals and the completion of procedures within a period not exceeding 120 seconds, by guiding pilgrims and ensuring their residences are ready to receive them.

During the tour, Prince Salman received an explanation of the center’s components, including a support center for transportation services, health clinics and ambulance transportation services, as well as the security and safety system and integrated operational services in welcome lounges, bus routes, the charity warehouse headquarters, transportation companies, and other administrative buildings within the center’s scope.


Al-Yanfa village restoration unlocks Asir’s architectural treasures

Updated 8 min 33 sec ago
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Al-Yanfa village restoration unlocks Asir’s architectural treasures

RIYADH: Municipal authorities in the Asir region have announced the completion of renovation and development works in the historic Al-Yanfa heritage village in the Tamniah district.

The initiative aims to elevate the village into a premier destination, attracting visitors and tourists from across the world, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

Al-Yanfa, situated in the scenic Al-Shaaf district of Asir, reflects the region’s cultural heritage. Just 45 km from Abha, the village features historical landmarks such as ancient buildings, mosques and fortified structures amid Asir’s picturesque landscapes. It is also known for its moderate climate and lush green surroundings.

Bandar Al-Nafiei, deputy secretary for projects at the Asir Municipality, highlighted the restoration efforts. He said that the project began with rehabilitating pathways and courtyards, with stone paving throughout the village.

To enhance the village’s charm, illumination fixtures were placed along pathways and courtyards, Al-Nafiei said.

Extensive landscaping was also undertaken, covering every part of the village, from entrances to pathways and courtyards. Additionally, a rainwater drainage project was implemented, incorporating natural wood elements, the SPA reported.

Al-Nafiei said that the village project, spanning more than 60,000 sq m, was implemented using advanced engineering methods. This approach aimed to provide visitors with easy access to explore the village and its historical heritage.


Saudi dialogue center in Lisbon hosts global peace forum

Updated 20 min 18 sec ago
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Saudi dialogue center in Lisbon hosts global peace forum

RIYADH: The King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue is hosting a global dialogue forum in Lisbon, Portugal, from May 14 to May 16, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Themed “Transformative Dialogue: Building Alliances for Peace in a Changing World,” this event marks a significant milestone in the center’s decade-long commitment to fostering global change and peace.

Bringing together influential leaders from decision-making institutions, the forum offers an opportunity to forge partnerships addressing today’s complex challenges, the SPA reported.

It serves as a platform for global political figures, intellectual leaders and clerics to tackle issues of peaceful coexistence and sustainable development amid rapid transformations.

Attendees include former French president, Francois Hollande; Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Abdullah bin Humaid, the imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah; Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, the archbishop of Constantinople; Matteo Renzi, former Italian prime minister; and former president of Austria, Heinz Fischer.

Exploring dialogue’s transformative potential, the forum aims to advance human rights, social cohesion, reconciliation and environmental cooperation in line with the center’s mission, the SPA said.

By fostering cooperation among nations, international institutions and civil society, the forum seeks to build understanding between cultures and religions.

With participation from prominent figures across various fields, this forum holds significant potential to shape policies and priorities for peaceful coexistence and societal advancement, the SPA reported.


Fitness campaign promotes regular physical activity

Updated 45 min 45 sec ago
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Fitness campaign promotes regular physical activity

RIYADH: The Saudi Sports for All Federation has said that its 2024 summer campaign, “Move Your World,” aims to help people engage in physical activities.

After surveying men and women across the Kingdom, the federation identified various obstacles and difficulties that people face daily, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The federation had solicited opinions from adult citizens and residents to pinpoint the primary reasons for their irregular participation in sports or physical activities.

A total of 46 percent of respondents said they did not have enough time in their daily routines for exercise or sports. About 14 percent mentioned health issues, disabilities, or injuries. Approximately 13 percent cited social or family obligations, and 8 percent said they feared picking up injuries.

The federation aims to raise awareness about the benefits of physical activity and help people overcome barriers hindering their participation, the SPA reported.

The summer campaign will offer weekly challenges to help motivate people. Additionally, it will emphasize the significance of physical activity for individuals of all ages.


Saudi deputy FM receives US deputy assistant secretary of state

Waleed Elkhereiji holds talks with Daniel Benaim in Riyadh. (Twitter @KSAmofaEN)
Updated 13 May 2024
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Saudi deputy FM receives US deputy assistant secretary of state

  • The most prominent regional and international developments discussed

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Daniel Benaim, US deputy assistant secretary of state for Arabian Peninsula affairs, in Riyadh on Sunday.

The two sides discussed strengthening Saudi-US relations and ways to enhance cooperation, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The most prominent regional and international developments were also discussed, as well as the efforts put forth in these areas.