TOKYO: Emperor Akihito of Japan conferred on King Salman a Daisy High Medal during a reception at the emperor’s palace in Tokyo on Tuesday.
The Saudi Press Agency said the medal was in appreciation of King Salman’s role as “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
The emperor also hosted a special luncheon in honor of King Salman, who arrived in Japan on Sunday on the fourth leg of a seven-nation month-long tour.
On Monday, the King met with Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe for talks focused on ways to further strengthen strategic as well as economic bilateral ties.
Abe has sought the king’s support for the listing of Saudi Aramco on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
The two sides also agreed to launch a feasibility study on setting up special economic zones in Saudi Arabia to attract Japanese investments by easing regulations and customs procedures.
King Salman and his delegation will fly to China on Wednesday.
Emperor of Japan receives King Salman
Emperor of Japan receives King Salman
Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons
- It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content
TAIF: A special section highlighting key Saudi literary figures forms part of the Writers and Readers Festival in Taif.
The area explores the lives of distinguished writers, poets, and authors who have shaped the Kingdom’s creative landscape, influencing literature, journalism, theater and intellectual thought.
It introduces visitors to the contributions of literary pioneers through accessible visual and narrative content, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the festival runs until Jan. 15 and features 42 prominent publishing houses from Saudi Arabia and overseas, offering visitors the chance to explore the latest works in literature, philosophy and general knowledge.
Meanwhile, the festival’s interactive murals section engages visitors with openwork art panels, allowing them to contribute to the city’s features and identity.
The murals depict Taif’s natural and historical landmarks, including Al-Hada Mountain, the Taif rose gardens, and traditional Hijazi palaces. Others are inspired by Souq Okaz, a historic literary and commercial center linked to the region’s poetic heritage.
Designed by a visual artist, they blend folk-inspired elements with imaginative expression, creating a collaborative experience that celebrates the city’s beauty and brings art closer to the public.










