Saudi, French foreign ministers emphasize importance of ending Sudan violence

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Updated 19 April 2023
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Saudi, French foreign ministers emphasize importance of ending Sudan violence

  • During a call, Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Catherine Colonna emphasized the importance of stopping the military escalation between the conflicting parties

RIYADH: The importance of ending the violence in Sudan was discussed during a phone call between the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and France on Wednesday.

During the call, Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Catherine Colonna emphasized the importance of stopping the military escalation between the conflicting parties and providing the necessary protection for Sudanese civilians and residents.

The ministers also reviewed the strong relations between the their countries and ways to enhance and develop them in various fields. Intensifying joint coordination on many issues of common concern were also discussed.

Violence erupted in Sudan at the weekend in a power struggle between the army and the paramilitary troops known as the Rapid Support Forces. At least 270 people have died and 2,600 have been injured, Sudan’s health ministry said, cited by the World Health Organization.
The fighting pits military leader Burhan against RSF chief General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, widely know as Hemedti, following tension over a plan to integrate the RSF into the regular military.
Burhan heads a ruling council installed after the 2021 military coup and the 2019 ouster of veteran autocrat Omar Al-Bashir, while Hemedti was his deputy on the ruling council.


Taif festival celebrates Saudi Arabia’s literary icons

Updated 11 January 2026
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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.