RIYADH: For the celebration of the Kingdom’s Founding Day, Christophe Farnaud, EU ambassador to Saudi Arabia, highlighted the long and deep relationship between the EU and the Kingdom.
“On 22 February, we pay tribute to the vision, leadership and resilience that have made Saudi Arabia a prosperous and influential nation,” Farnaud said.
“The European Union is proud to host the celebration of the Kingdom’s important national holiday, which reminds us of all the enduring and long-standing friendship between our two nations,” he said.
By working together on regional and global issues, the two sides were acting to strengthen their relationship, which continued to mature and evolve, he said.
The EU embassy in Saudi Arabia hosted celebrations for Founding Day. (Supplied)
Farnaud stressed the importance of continuing this warm and cooperative spirit, especially in the face of global challenges: “As we move forward in an increasingly complex world, it is more important than ever.”
The EU ambassador underlined the importance of the historic friendship and highlighted the values shared by both regions; peace, stability and mutual respect.
Farnaud told Arab News: “We have chosen to participate in the celebration of the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is one of the most important dates in the country’s identity.
“It’s the ideal time to unite our efforts. I think that’s one of the reasons for this day, which is obviously a day for the Saudi people, but also a day of national reunion.
“I think for the embassies and for us who are here, it’s a way of associating ourselves with this celebration by bringing us closer to the Saudi heritage, which is actually a very important heritage.
EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Farnaud is pictured during Founding Day celebrations in Riyadh. (Supplied)
“We’re standing in one of these old houses in Diriyah, a historic place, where the dynasty was born.
“Today, it’s also an emblematic site for one of the country’s most important projects and a place where evidence of this ancient heritage remains, which is particularly close to my heart.
“In this context, I was able to bring together my team and guests to do something together to celebrate this event and connect with Saudi heritage.
“We’re here to literally touch this local heritage. I think it’s a less formal but more engaging way to celebrate this event,” Farnaud said.
The celebration, held at Bonjour Saudi in Diriyah, allowed guests to discover local gastronomy and take part in enriching workshops.
It also provided insight into the Najdi gates, revealing their cultural significance and impact on Saudi heritage.
