Arab and Muslim nations, organizations commend Saudi Arabia’s decrees on Khashoggi case

Saudi Arabia has admitted that Khashoggi, a prominent journalist, died in a fight inside its Istanbul consulate and dismissed five officials over the incident. (SPA)
Updated 31 October 2018
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Arab and Muslim nations, organizations commend Saudi Arabia’s decrees on Khashoggi case

  • UAE, Egypt and Bahrain issued statements commending Saudi Arabia's royal decrees
  • Saudi Arabia’s highest religious body, the Council of Senior Scholars, said the king’s decisions “achieve justice and equality”

JEDDAH: Gulf Arab allies have backed the royal decrees issued Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Saturday involving the death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

UAE

The United Arab Emirates hailed the directives and decisions of King Salman, following the unfortunate incident that killed Khashoggi, reported to the official state news agency WAM.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, commended the for his great and keen attention in this matter.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by its leadership, was and still is a state of institutions based on justice and equity.

The royal decisions and actions taken after the investigation in this case reaffirm these values ​​and established principles to ensure the application of law and justice,” he added.
Egypt

Egypt praised what it called the "decisive" and "brave" actions taken by the king.
"Egypt sees that the brave and decisive decisions and actions taken by the Saudi King over this matter align with his majesty's approach that respects the principles of law and applications of effective justice," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
It also offered its condolences to Khashoggi's family and said it was confident the investigation would reveal the truth. 

Bahrain

Bahrain praised King Salman's interest to establish justice and fairness and his endeavors to disclose the facts, both impartially and objectively, are reflected in the wise directives and royal decisions issued in relation to the Khashoggi case.
"Saudi Arabia was and will remain the state of justice, values ​​and principles that guarantee the application of law to all without exception," a statement issued on Saudi Press Agency said.
Bahrain stressed that Saudi Arabia, with its high regional and international standing and its great assets and noble contributions, will continue to be the basis of security and stability in the region and the world. 
It reaffirmed its "strong solidarity with the Kingdom in all its positions and actions to all that harms its security, sovereignty and stability."

Palestine

Palestine commended King Salman's decisions to affirm justice and fairness.

The statement also stressed that Saudi Arabia, under the wise leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will remain the state of justice, values and principles.

Yemen

Yemen’s legitimate government praised the results of preliminary investigations conducted by Saudi Arabia’s Public Prosecution into Khashoggi's death , and praised decisions made by King Salman in relation to the investigation.

In a statement published by Yemen’s state news agency Saba New, the Yemeni government said that the findings of Saudi Arabia’s investigation in the Khashoggi case and the arrests that were made reflect the keenness of judicial institutions to ensure the safety of the Kingdom's citizens inside the country and abroad.

Jordan

Jordan said that it stands with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the steps it has taken regarding the case of Khashoggi. The Jordanian government added that the measures taken by Saudi Arabia are essential for achieving justice.

Djibouti

Djibouti praised King Salman's decisions and said they are proof that Saudi Arabia is a nation of values, principles, and justice.

Oman

 Oman welcomed on Sunday Saudi Arabia's decisions "on the regrettable incident" that led to the death of Khashoggi, the state news agency ONA reported.
"The sultanate welcome decisions taken by the kingdom in this regard, insists on the importance to allow justice to take its course, away from any interpretation," ONA said, quoting a statement from the Gulf state's foreign ministry. 

Kuwait

Kuwait welcomes decisions by Saudi king with regards to Khashoggi case, according to a Kuwaiti foreign ministry source to KUNA.

Lebanon

 Lebanon's premier-designate Saad Hariri threw his support behind Saudi Arabia Tuesday over the death of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at its Istanbul consulate.
"The measures taken by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regarding the case of journalist Jamal Khashoggi... come within the framework that serves the path of justice and the disclosure of the whole truth," a statement from his office quoted him as saying.

Arab and Muslim Organizations

The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) affirmed that, since the beginning of its establishment that was based on justice, Saudi Arabia does not hesitate in implementing its provisions. King Salman Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to bring all those who violate it to justice.
The organization’s secretary-general, Dr. Yousuf Al-Othaimeen, praised the transparency with which the Saudi Arabian government dealt with the disappearance of the Saudi journalist, which issued decisive decisions on Friday, including the arrest of 18 persons involved in this case following the initial investigations of the Attorney General.
The Kingdom confirmed the protection of its citizens and said it will not give up their rights. 
Moreover from the beginning of Khashoggi’s disappearance, the Kingdom stressed that it will reveal the truth and will apply justice to all those involved, which is already underway.
At the same time, Al-Othaimeen stressed that it is not possible to jump to conclusions in these investigations until it is officially concluded. 
All 18 detainees are still accused and have not been found guilty by the judiciary. 
He said: “The Saudi judiciary, which has integrity and independence, will issue fair judgments, and it is not appropriate to prejudge decisions made by the judiciary.

Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Dr. Abdullatif Al-Zayani lauded the latest measurements taken by the Kingdom.
In a statement, Al-Zayani called the measurements as asserting the firmness as well as the wisdom of the Kingdom's leadership, by clearly prioritizing facts before world public opinion and by pursuing investigations in such a sorrowful and grave case and holding those involved accountable.

Saudi Arabia’s highest religious body, the Council of Senior Scholars, on Saturday said the king’s decisions on the death of Khashoggi “achieve justice and equality in accordance with Islamic law”, according to a statement on state news agency SPA.


Saudi king, crown prince offer condolences to UAE president on key official’s death

Updated 02 May 2024
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Saudi king, crown prince offer condolences to UAE president on key official’s death

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Thursday offered condolences to the ruler of the United Arab Emirates on the death of a key official and a member of the royal family, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

In a cable to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE president, King Salman expressed "our deepest and sincere condolences" on the death of Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi’s ruler representative in Al Ain, who died on May 1, 2024.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed "my warmest and most sincere condolences" in a separate cable to the UAE leader, the SPA said.
 


French creatives bring enchanting art experience to Jeddah

Updated 01 May 2024
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French creatives bring enchanting art experience to Jeddah

  • For ‘ETH3R,’ Paul Marlier translates dancer Jeanne Morel’s graceful movements into digital art

JEDDAH: Artist Paul Marlier and dancer Jeanne Morel have brought an interactive digital art display dubbed “ETH3R” to Jeddah’s cultural hub, Hayy Jameel.

The French creatives feature immersive artworks generated using the biometric data of Morel captured during her movement in extreme environments — including in zero-gravity.

The unique blend of technology and creativity has captivated audiences with its perspectives on reality, and contrasts with the often mundane nature of daily life.

In an interview with Arab News, Marlier spoke about the creative process behind their digital artwork. He also highlighted the production of artworks inspired by the human and scientific data he had gathered.

“It is a real pleasure to be here, particularly in Hayy Jameel, where we blend art and science to create a sensory experience like no other,” he said. “It represents the DNA imprint of the world — the dance of our souls.” 

He added: “ETH3R encompasses paintings and dynamic installations derived from the biometric data of my wife, Jeanne Morel, who dances in diverse and extreme environments, from beneath the ocean depths to high-altitude astronaut training.”

Marlier has amalgamated this scientific data regarding human physiology with other information, including air quality, satellite imagery, and even facts from the Red Sea. “These artworks serve as emotional imprints, reminiscent of moments of grace. It’s truly a collaborative effort.”

Explaining the process, he added: “With Jeanne as the catalyst, adorned with sensors akin to a paintbrush, her dance emotions are translated through code into the digital art seen in the paintings. We explore themes of fragility, spirituality, and the inherent unity between humans and nature — the universal dance.”

“We approach data not as mere codification, but as sensations, enabling us to specify and share the experience. By capturing a wealth of information from this singular dancer, we endeavor to materialize the essence of grace,” Marlier said.

Morel added: “Dance is the way to express your deepest emotions, sometimes simpler than words.”

“Dance is the allegory of life. It allows me to stay alive, connected to the movements of the world. Our bodies are constantly dancing, moving, on this earth which itself dances around the sun and remains in balance thanks to gravity,” she added.

Of their first visit to the Kingdom, Marlier said: “The people are absolutely welcoming here. And spirituality and poetry are so present.”

Morel added: “We admire the spirituality and also the open-mindedness of this country regarding art and especially digital art.”

Waleed Harthi, an art enthusiast, said: “Witnessing art that exceeds boundaries was a mesmerizing journey, captivating our senses and sparking wonder at the fusion of art and technology. The live demonstration and dance were incredibly relaxing and offered a serene escape to some other imaginary world.”

The exhibition runs until May 11.


Saudi FM discusses developments in Sudan with army chief, RSF leader

Updated 01 May 2024
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Saudi FM discusses developments in Sudan with army chief, RSF leader

  • During the separate calls, the latest developments in the situation in Sudan and their repercussions on the Sudanese people were discussed

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan spoke with Sudan’s Sovereign Council Chief General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan and the leader of Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo on Wednesday.

During the separate calls, the latest developments in the situation in Sudan and their repercussions on the Sudanese people were discussed, Saudi Press Agency reported. 

Prince Faisal stressed the importance of working to protect Sudan and its people from further destruction and preventing the worsening of the humanitarian conditions there.

The minister also said it was important to prioritise the interests of the Sudanese people and stop the fighting to protect state institutions and bring about safety in Sudan.


Farasan Island celebrates 20th Hareed Fishing Festival

Updated 01 May 2024
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Farasan Island celebrates 20th Hareed Fishing Festival

  • Event showcases tourist activities such as parasailing, traditional folk dances

RIYADH: Fishermen from the Jazan region have started preparing for the 20th Hareed Fishing Festival, which begins on Thursday.

The festival, which takes place on Farasan Island and lasts for two days, celebrates the fishing of parrotfish, otherwise known as hareed.

It showcases various tourist activities such as parasailing, traditional folk dances, and competitions for catching the fish, which is difficult due to their survival instinct which leads them to hide by corals.

Hareed are traditionally caught close to the shore in nets. The brightly colored fish come in different sizes and change color as they grow, the color varying according to their sex. They are considered parrot-like as they have teeth that they use to scrape food off coral reefs.

The fishing season varies across the region’s waters. In the past, the people of Farasan celebrated the event by visiting newlywed brides wearing traditional dress, while women and children joined in the festivities at her home.

Visitors to the festival will also get the chance to explore the heritage sites in Farasan, which include Wadi Matar, Al-Qassar village and Bait Al-Jarmal, along with several historic houses.

The island boasts a unique cultural heritage which centers on sailing and pearl-diving experiences in the past.

Jazan Gov. Prince Mohammed bin Nasser is launching the festival, which is organized by the region’s branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, in partnership with the islands’ governorate.

Mohammed Al-Atif, the general director of the branch, said that the festival embodied the customs and traditions of the people of the Farasan Islands and was considered an annual event to highlight the region’s tourism potential.

He added that the festival also celebrates hareed, which appears at the same time each year and proves a major attraction for people in the Jazan region.


Riyadh hosts food technology and innovation show

Updated 01 May 2024
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Riyadh hosts food technology and innovation show

  • Industry giants showcase latest in processing, sustainability

RIYADH: More than 400 companies from 35 countries are taking part in the first Saudi Food Manufacturing show, which opened in Riyadh on Tuesday.

Held under the patronage of Saudi Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources Bandar Al-Khorayef, the event focuses on processing, packaging and ingredients and aims to facilitate high level business deals, connections and collaborations.

Three companies that won a Saudi Food Manufacturing Award at the event — Multivac, DC Norris and Brenntag — spoke to Arab News.

Amir Sotoudeh, managing director of Multivac, said the German firm won the Best Processing Innovation Award for its TX series and smart services at Gulfood Manufacturing.

The company has had a branch office in Riyadh since 2009 and the Kingdom is the company’s largest market in the Middle East.

“Saudi Arabia is a significant market, especially in recent years, with major developments focusing on local production and manufacturing. That’s where our technology and expertise as a market leader in processing and packaging are essential.”

DC Norris is a UK-based process equipment company serving 62 countries. It provides solutions for food, dairy and beverage manufacturing and won the Best Processing Manufacturing Award.

Stuart Rigby, product and process technology manager at DC Norris, said the company’s jet cook system, which is used in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Dubai and Azerbaijan, was able to cook meals two to three times faster than traditional methods.

“It also uses considerably less water, resulting in zero burns, requiring less cleaning and reducing costs. Additionally, it consumes up to 55 percent less energy than traditional cooking methods,” he said.

Brenntag, a 150-year-old German company, is the global market leader in chemical and ingredient distribution. It won the Best Ingredients Innovation Award.

Mahaboob Shaik, technical sales manager at Brenntag, said: “We have replicated the characteristics of regular milk-based proteins and constituents using plant-based alternatives. We’ve developed a Greek-style feta cheese made from plant-based ingredients.

“This helps to reduce allergens like milk proteins in dishes like Caesar salad. Now, when you order a salad at a restaurant, you can enjoy a plant-based cheese, which is entirely vegan.”

Several Saudi manufacturers, including Sapin, Anasia and Memco, are taking part in the show, which provides a platform for companies to exchange ideas.

Majed Al-Argoubi, CEO of the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones, said: “The industrial sector is going to increase both the GDP and abilities of youth in the Kingdom.

“We are making impressive growth through Saudi Vision 2030 and Made in Saudi is remarkable for expanding cities across the country and achieving our goals.”

Among the most innovative products on display are the Novamyl BestBite from Novozymes, which improves texture and softness in baked goods while extending shelf life to reduce food waste. Others include sustainable packaging for dates from Napco, a sugar reduction method for fruit juice from Austria Juice, Lactosan, a natural culinary booster from FSL and Biopap, a range of renewable, compostable, high-performance food containers.

Pavilions from Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, US, France, Turkiye and China reflect the international scope of the show, which runs until Thursday.