CAIRO: During a workshop on fighting terrorism, the Arab Parliament related that the world’s states, and especially in the Arab region, are facing major challenges in confronting terrorism and the expansion of terrorist groups that aim to destabilize security and create rifts among societies in the Arab states.
Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Salami, speaker of the Arab Parliament, delivered a speech at the regional workshop “Implementation of the Global Counterterrorism Forum Valletta Recommendations,” held under the auspices of the Arab Parliament in Cairo, calling for combined efforts at all national, regional and international levels to combat terrorism and its dangers at all levels, including security, media, religion, and education.
Delegates from 25 Arab, African and European states and a number of experts from international non-governmental organizations are participating in the workshop.
Al-Salami clarified that the Arab Parliament’s priority is combating terrorism, and to reach a unified practical vision in different security, educational, social and cultural fields to root it out, and deter those who support and finance it.
The Arab Parliament has not only condemned terrorist acts, but also seeks strategies, means and procedures to fight terrorism, declaring that it is against the Islamic religion which calls for peace, freedom and forgiveness. The Parliament rejects linking terrorism to Islam and condemns discrimination against Muslims, Al-Salami added.
The workshop seeks to develop and reinforce relations with the European Parliament to become its effective partner in fighting terrorism, and in other matters that can serve their people.
Al-Salami praised the establishment of the Islamic Military Alliance to Fight Terrorism (with 41 states that have joined), stressing the Parliament’s support to the Arab states, which have become targets for terrorists, and for the efforts of Egypt, Iraq, KSA, Bahrain and Yemen in combating terrorism.
He also urged the world’s parliaments, and the European Parliament in particular, not to support Israel’s candidacy for a rotating seat on the UN Security Council 2019-2020 since Israel is an occupying state, which obstructs world security and peace, and its presence on the UN Security Council, would be counterproductive.
Arab Parliament speaker calls for unity in fight against terrorism
Arab Parliament speaker calls for unity in fight against terrorism
Klija Festival in Buraidah empowers small businesses
- Half a million attend 15-day celebration of heritage; event creates 1,500 seasonal jobs
RIYADH: The 17th Klija Festival in Buraidah drew more than half a million visitors during its 15-day run, celebrating the region’s heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.
Organized by the Qassim Chamber of Commerce, the event highlighted small businesses, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase local products.
More than 340 sales outlets, marketing corners and points of sale welcomed attendees, while the festival provided 1,500 seasonal job opportunities, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The small business pavilions featured families in the cottage industry, artisans and startups presenting traditional foods, and handicrafts and heritage items that reflect the region’s identity.
Participants said that the festival was a key marketing platform, boosting sales, increasing brand awareness, facilitating knowledge exchange and fostering connections with organizations supporting SMEs.
Mohammed Al-Hanaya, Qassim Chamber secretary-general and festival supervisor, said that the event brought together families, artisans, SMEs, companies and institutions, stimulating commercial activity, opening direct marketing channels and enhancing economic returns.
He added that the festival provided seasonal jobs for more than 1,500 young men and women across operations, marketing and services, supporting the labor market, empowering national talent, and connecting youth to the events and creative economy.
Klija, a traditional cookie made from wheat flour, dates or sugar, date syrup and natural ingredients such as cardamom and lemon, is a rich source of energy, carbohydrates, dietary fiber and natural proteins.
A cultural icon rooted in Qassim’s traditions, the cookie has gained international exposure through the festival, expanding the availability of packaged products.
Starting next year, the festival will be renamed the International Klija Festival, a rebranding approved by Qassim Gov. Prince Faisal bin Mishaal, who described it as a “successful model for turning local initiatives into global economic engines.”
This year’s festival, held at the King Khalid Cultural Center, included international participants from Egypt, Turkiye and Morocco, marking its evolution into a cross-cultural platform.
