Saudi Arabia says Biden’s speech reiterates US commitment to work with allies

US President Joe Biden delivers his inauguration speech on January 20, 2021, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. Biden was sworn in as the 46th president of the US. (AFP)
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Updated 05 February 2021
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Saudi Arabia says Biden’s speech reiterates US commitment to work with allies

  • Biden spoke of the need for the US to play a more active diplomatic role to bring an end to the conflict in Yemen
  • Saudi Arabia welcomed the new American president’s commitment to work with allies to resolve conflicts

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia said on Friday President Joe Biden’s speech reiterated US commitment to work with “friends and allies” to resolve conflicts.

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir told Al-Ekhbaria the Kingdom was looking forward to working with the US administration.

“We look forward to working with our friends in the US to end conflicts and confront challenges, as we have for over seven decades," he added.

He added: “Our countries have spilled blood in the liberation of Kuwait and in combating Al-Qaeda, including in Yemen, and Daesh in Syria.

Biden said the war in Yemen “must end,” during his first foreign policy speech on Thursday since taking office.

“At the same time, we’re going to continue to support and help Saudi Arabia defend its sovereignty and its territorial integrity and its people,” Biden said, adding that the Kingdom continues to be targeted with missile attacks.

And he spoke of the need for the US to play a more active diplomatic role to bring an end to the conflict in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia, a member of the Arab coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government, has repeatedly called for a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the United States’ commitment, expressed in President Biden’s speech today, to cooperate with the Kingdom in defending its security and territory," said Prince Faisal bin Farhan on Thursday, Saudi Arabia's foreign minister. "We look forward to working with Tim Lenderking to achieve our joint goal of a comprehensive political resolution in Yemen as part of our shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous region."

Also on Thursday, Saudi Arabia's Deputy Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman welcomed the president's commitment to working with allies to resolve conflicts. He also welcomed the appointment of Lenderking and said the Kingdom was looking forward to working with its American partners to "alleviate the humanitarian situation and find a solution to the Yemen crisis, and ensure peace and stability."

* With Reuters


Ramadan jalabiyas: what stores have in store for us this year

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Ramadan jalabiyas: what stores have in store for us this year

  • Jalabiyas are an absolute necessity for many women at iftar
  • Colorful dresses in demand, store operators tell Arab News

RIYADH: While there is a focus on decorating homes with lanterns and red tablecloths in Ramadan, many are also keeping an eye on the latest fashion trends.

Every year, women head to the stores in search of embroidered and colorful Ramadan jalabiyas, which is the traditional gown.

Whether in Madinah, Jeddah, Riyadh or elsewhere, the wearing of a jalabiya is an absolute necessity at iftar.

At Riyadh Park Mall, the high-end Shalky has glamorous dresses and jalabiyas on display.

The store has a range of sparkling and embroidered offerings in velvet and silk, with long sleeves, draped shoulders and short-sleeve layered designs.

Speaking to Arab News, saleswoman Sultana Al-Otaibi elaborated on the store’s Ramadan collection.

“We have pieces like this with detailed and fine embroidery that celebrate the upcoming Founding Day while still having the Ramadan vibe,” she said as she pulled out a white gown with green embroidery that costs around SR1,900 ($506).

Jalabiya gowns with belts and attached capes line the windows, with some costing up to SR3,000.

If you enjoy online shopping and quick delivery, locals have taken to Instagram and TikTok to sell their trendy pieces.

Online jalabiya shopping offers a wide variation in pricing and design.

Dina Faisal Kutbi, founder of The Polkadots, an Instagram abaya and kaftan store, told Arab News about this Ramadan season’s fashion trends.

“From burgundy and camel to olive, navy and blush, cozy winter shades are bringing elegance and comfort to this season’s looks.”

She said this year the trend “has evolved into a more classic and luxurious style, this change is driven by the fabrics used, particularly velvet and lace.”

Kutbi said there was the most demand for kaftans in Ramadan, which was the store’s “key season.”

She added: “This year, with Founding Day and Ramadan overlapping, I’ve combined symbols like camels and palm trees in my designs — printed or embroidered — to celebrate both occasions in one elegant look.”

For those looking for more budget offerings, Al-Andalus, Hayat and Royal malls have affordable options. There are also pricier stores with premium fabrics sourced from Korea and Japan.

Local stores often offer repairs, adjustments and even custom designs.