RIYADH: A cultural concert was organized in Beijing to mark three decades of Saudi-China diplomatic relationship.
Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chen Weiqing told Arab News: “This year marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Saudi diplomatic relations. The pandemic makes us keep social distance, but it never cut loose the bond of our hearts, we stand together and move forward.”
“We recorded a concert performed by top-level China Philharmonic Orchestra in Beijing to commemorate the historical moment of our two countries, and scheduled to release it on TV and online right after the G20 Summit,” said the ambassador.
“And we chose a maestro of Saudi music, Aghla Balad, to play in the concert,” he added.
Sharing a video clip from the musical concert the Chinese ambassador tweeted: “The Arabs say: ‘Give back with gratitude.’ I am sharing with you a video of a beautiful moment at the concert that will be shown on CCTV Arabia and we dedicate it to the rich Kingdom and its generous people.”
He said: “Saudi Arabia took over the G20 presidency under very special circumstances, but it never undermined the inspiration and ambition of the Saudi leadership, government and people to bring about a summit of full success. The Kingdom won the respect and appreciation of the world. China appreciates the great efforts, shares the same values, and takes the same position in global governance with Saudi Arabia.”
“Once again, we take this opportunity to congratulate the Saudi government and people for a successful G20 Summit,” he added.
2020 marks the 30th anniversary of Saudi-China diplomatic relations as the two governments established official diplomatic relations on July 21, 1990.
Saudi-China relations have strengthened over the years.
During the coronavirus disease pandemic, ties were further strengthened with the two countries offering each other assistance and staunch support.
Following instructions from King Salman, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) actively provided China with medical supplies, which played a positive role in helping China effectively control the pandemic.
In April this year, China and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement worth $265.29 million to fight the pandemic, providing 9 million nucleic acid tests for Saudi Arabia and setting up laboratories in six major areas in the Kingdom.
China also sent a team of medical experts to the Kingdom to help fight the virus.
DiplomaticQuarter: A cultural concert marks strong Saudi-China diplomatic ties
https://arab.news/mg89h
DiplomaticQuarter: A cultural concert marks strong Saudi-China diplomatic ties
International brands turn to Riyadh to expand cooperation
- Capital cements role as hub at World Defense Show
RIYADH: Riyadh is cementing its role as a rising hub in the global defense industry, and the World Defense Show has attracted international brands eager to showcase advanced technologies and expand partnerships in the Kingdom and beyond.
Held under the patronage of the Saudi leadership, the show — which runs until Feb. 12 — has brought together defense manufacturers, technology innovators and government representatives from around the world.
Arab News spoke to several international exhibitors who underscored the show’s growing importance as a gateway to pursue regional and global cooperation.
Among the returning participants is Passtech Machine Tools, represented by Syed Zahid, its sales manager.
The company collaborates with various international brands, providing tools, machines and gauges, including advanced CNC (computer numerical control) machinery from South Korea.
For Zahid, WDS has proved to be a strategic platform, and he said: “This is our third time. We see it as very, very useful.”
From China, Jihua Group Co. Ltd. showcases advanced navigation devices and integrated systems. Peter Wang, its senior product manager, expressed optimism about expanding cooperation.
At the company’s booth, Arab News was introduced to several technologies, including what Wang described as a “true-color navigation device.”
Highlighting a wearable system, Wang said it was designed to enhance mobility and operational efficiency.
He emphasized the diversity of visitors and the potential for cross-border cooperation, and added: “I meet different countries’ customers here. I’m very happy and I want to get some opportunities for cooperation.”
Turkiye is also represented at the event. Masttech, which is attending WDS for the first time, is showcasing its products for visitors.
Deputy General Manager Sitki Tuzun said: “We are here to show all our products. We are producing electromechanical, mechanical and pneumatic mast systems here.”
While the company does not yet have Saudi clients, Tuzun made it clear that the show was a strategic leap toward entering the market.
“We are here for connection and new business cooperation,” he said.
The World Defense Show has demonstrated its increasing influence as a platform from which global brands meet regional opportunity.
Beyond static displays, the show serves as a dynamic networking arena, connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and defense stakeholders under one roof.
As Saudi Arabia accelerates efforts to localize its defense industry and invest in advanced technologies, WDS continues to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and international collaboration — reinforcing Riyadh’s emergence as a central node in the global defense ecosystem.
