A historic defence pact that could reshape geopolitics around West Asia is near completion. Saudi Arabia and the United States are set to be closing in on a landmark defense pact and nuclear artificial intelligence cooperation dubbed as Plan B.

Saudi Arabia-US explore bilateral defence pact

A batch of Saudi female conscripts recently attended a training course on combat of drugs and handling of weapons amid a robust empowerment of women in the kingdom. Watch in for more details!

Saudi Arabia: Women in uniform attend training for weapons handling, anti-drug stints

Saudi Arabian authorities shut schools in several regions, as flash floods inundate roads. This is the latest instance of heavy rains disrupting life in the desert state.

Saudi Arabia Floods: heavy rains force schools closure in Riyadh, Medina

Torrential rain shuts schools in Saudi

Saudi Arabia's ambitious economic transformation plan, known as vision 2030, remains steadfast despite facing some setbacks. Officials emphasise prioritising initiatives beneficial for both the delayed projects and the economy. The government's focus includes enhancing human capital, increasing female workforce participation,and strengthening institutions to tackle challenges.

Saudi prioritises human capital & women's workforce participation

The World Economic Forum in Riyadh is grappling with a complex challenge: Ensuring energy security for all while transitioning to a greener future. Nearly 800 million people globally lack access to basic electricity.

World Economic Forum focuses on energy security & access

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said on Sunday only the United States could stop Israel attacking the border city of Rafah in Gaza, adding that the assault, which he expects within days, could force much of the Palestinian population to flee the enclave.

World Economic Forum: Over 1000 leaders meet in Saudi Arabia | Palestine's Abbas discusses Gaza crisis

A Malta-flagged container ship which was en route from Djibouti to the Saudi city of Jeddah was reportedly targeted with three missiles, reported the British maritime security firm Ambrey, on Monday (Apr 29). The incident reportedly took place near Yemen’s port city of Mokha.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

At around 0702 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time), the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), citing military sources reported an incident near the Yemeni port city and that authorities are investigating.&nbsp;

“Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO,” said the agency in a statement.&nbsp;

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In an update, the UKMTO said that it was informed by a Company Security Officer that an explosion had occurred in close proximity to a merchant vessel in the area.&nbsp;

The vessel and the crew are reported safe and the authorities are still investigating the incident, said the British agency.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ambrey said that the vessel was targeted due to its listed operator’s ongoing trade with Israel.&nbsp;

Both Ambrey and UKMTO reported that the incident took place around 54 nautical miles northwest of Yemen’s Mokha.

<h2>Houthi militants involved?</h2>

The Yemen-based Iran-backed Houthi rebels have repeatedly attacked international commercial shipping in the Red Sea region with drones and missiles, saying that they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas.&nbsp;

The Houthi rebels, who have been targeting Red Sea shipping since mid-November have not claimed responsibility for the reported attack, on Monday.&nbsp;

The incident also comes days after UKMTO reported damage to an India-bound vessel after Ambrey said three missiles were sighted approximately 15 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Mokha.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-israel-making-efforts-to-block-feared-icc-arrest-warrants-against-netanyahu-others-report-716139">Gaza war: Israel making efforts to block ICC arrest warrants against Netanyahu and others, says report</a>

“The Master has reported two attacks. The first attack, the vessel experienced an explosion in close proximity to the vessel, which was felt by the crew on board,” the UKMTO said in a statement, on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;

It added, “Subsequently, the second attack on the vessel, consisted of what is believed to be two missiles, which resulted in damage to the vessel.”&nbsp;

The vessel in question was en route from Primorsk, Russia, to Vadinar, India. “At the time of writing, the vessel's owner was Seychelles-registered and was engaged in Russia-linked trade,” said Ambrey.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A Malta-flagged container ship which was en route from Djibouti to the Saudi city of Jeddah was reportedly targeted with three missiles, reported the British maritime security firm Ambrey, on Monday (Apr 29).

A Malta-flagged container ship which was en route from Djibouti to the Saudi city of Jeddah was reportedly targeted with three missiles, reported the British maritime security firm Ambrey, on Monday (Apr 29). The incident reportedly took place near Yemen’s port city of Mokha. What we know about the incident At around 0702 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time), the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), citing military sources reported an incident near the Yemeni port city and that authorities are investigating. “Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO,” said the agency in a statement. Also Read | Red Sea shipping diversions boost carbon emissions equivalent to 9 mn cars In an update, the UKMTO said that it was informed by a Company Security Officer that an explosion had occurred in close proximity to a merchant vessel in the area. The vessel and the crew are reported safe and the authorities are still investigating the incident, said the British agency. Meanwhile, Ambrey said that the vessel was targeted due to its listed operator’s ongoing trade with Israel. Both Ambrey and UKMTO reported that the incident took place around 54 nautical miles northwest of Yemen’s Mokha. Houthi militants involved? The Yemen-based Iran-backed Houthi rebels have repeatedly attacked international commercial shipping in the Red Sea region with drones and missiles, saying that they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas. The Houthi rebels, who have been targeting Red Sea shipping since mid-November have not claimed responsibility for the reported attack, on Monday. The incident also comes days after UKMTO reported damage to an India-bound vessel after Ambrey said three missiles were sighted approximately 15 nautical miles southwest of Yemen’s Mokha. Also Read | Gaza war: Israel making efforts to block ICC arrest warrants against Netanyahu and others, says report “The Master has reported two attacks. The first attack, the vessel experienced an explosion in close proximity to the vessel, which was felt by the crew on board,” the UKMTO said in a statement, on Friday (Apr 26). It added, “Subsequently, the second attack on the vessel, consisted of what is believed to be two missiles, which resulted in damage to the vessel.” The vessel in question was en route from Primorsk, Russia, to Vadinar, India. “At the time of writing, the vessel's owner was Seychelles-registered and was engaged in Russia-linked trade,” said Ambrey. (With inputs from agencies)

Container ship en route to Jeddah attacked with three missiles near Yemen’s port city Mokha

US State Secretary Antony Blinken is in Saudi Arabia to meet with government leaders and discuss efforts to reach an “immediate ceasefire agreement” between Israel and Hamas. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called for Israel to do more even though there have been improvements in getting humanitarian Aid into Gaza Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: US Secy Antony Blinken reaches Saudi Arabia to ease Gaza war

Watch the top headlines of the hour: - Blinken in Saudi for talks on Gaza - Israel-Lebanon border heats up - Xi on Europe tour from May 5-10 - At least 43 killed in Kenya Dam Burst

Blinken in Saudi for talks on Gaza | Israel-Lebanon border heats up

After more than 9 years, a group of Iranians travelled to Saudi Arabia for the Umrah. Due to the rift between Iran and Saudi Arabia, Iranians were not able to go on the year-round pilgrimage to Mecca. Here's a look at the first batch of Iranians attending the pilgrimage.

First batch of Iranians in Saudi

Representatives of Saudi Arabia's mega project Neom were recently in China. Doing what? Meeting leaders and prospective investors. Reports say Saudi Arabia has had to scale down its trillion-dollar project Neom because of finance-related issues. Will China come to the rescue?

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia seeks Chinese investment to revive over-ambitious Neom

The International Monetary Fund predicts that Saudi Arabia will require a higher oil price than initially anticipated this year. The initiative of the organisation of Petroleum exporting countries, or OPEC+, to reduce output has weighed on revenues.

Will OPEC+ start to unwind production cuts on higher oil?

For the first time, archaeologists have found evidence that human civilisation thrived inside lava tubes to fight the heat in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia.

Lava tubes are caves which were formed in a volcanic eruption. The surface of a river of lava cooled down and solidified and the hot molten rock continued to flow under it. The lava eventually drained out of the tube and left behind a tunnel.

<h2>All about Saudi Arabia's biggest lava tube</h2>

Umm Jirsan is the biggest lava tube which runs across 1.5 kilometres in Saudi Arabia. Researcher Mathew Stewart, who works at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, excavated a trench inside Umm Jirsan along with his colleagues.

In their excavation, the researchers found stone tools, animal bones and pottery which were estimated to be at least 7,000 years old.

For more than 15 years, Stewart and his team have been exploring the region and earlier found numerous stone structures on the surface which proved human habitation.&nbsp;

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The organic material present in the region broke down due to the desert’s hot, arid climate, which has made it difficult to estimate its age.

The landscape on the surface is a “hot, dry and flat basalt desert”, said Stewart. “But when you are down in the lava tube, it’s much cooler. It’s very sheltered and it would have been a great place of refuge. It’s transforming our understanding of the prehistory of the Arabian peninsula,” he said, as reported by the New Scientist.

<h2>What did the researchers discover in the lava tube?&nbsp;</h2>

The researchers, while excavating parts of the underground network at Umm Jirsan, discovered human bones. However, it is believed that they were dragged inside the cave by hyenas.

In a different lava tube, Stewart and his colleagues discovered rock art which included representational images of domestic sheep and goats which were likely carved by “cultural contemporaries” of the groups which used the lava tubes as a refuge, he said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Vampire Bacteria's thirst for human blood, deadly discovery of bacteria

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vampire-bacterias-thirst-for-human-blood-deadly-discovery-of-bacteria-712447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the analysis of the researchers, the humans were not living in the lava tube for long periods at one given point in time.&nbsp;

"The lava tube does not appear to have served as a permanent habitation location, but rather as a site that likely lay on herding routes and that allowed access to shade and water for passing herders and their animals," wrote the authors&nbsp;in the study.&nbsp;

"Prior to this, as well as during pastoral periods, the lava tube was likely also linked with hunting activities, which probably remained a cornerstone of local economies into the Bronze Age," they added.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time, archaeologists have found evidence that human civilisation thrived inside lava tubes to fight the heat in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia.

For the first time, archaeologists have found evidence that human civilisation thrived inside lava tubes to fight the heat in the deserts of northern Saudi Arabia. Lava tubes are caves which were formed in a volcanic eruption. The surface of a river of lava cooled down and solidified and the hot molten rock continued to flow under it. The lava eventually drained out of the tube and left behind a tunnel. All about Saudi Arabia's biggest lava tube Umm Jirsan is the biggest lava tube which runs across 1.5 kilometres in Saudi Arabia. Researcher Mathew Stewart, who works at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia, excavated a trench inside Umm Jirsan along with his colleagues. In their excavation, the researchers found stone tools, animal bones and pottery which were estimated to be at least 7,000 years old. For more than 15 years, Stewart and his team have been exploring the region and earlier found numerous stone structures on the surface which proved human habitation. Also Read: Human brains getting larger in size, and this may be good news for some The organic material present in the region broke down due to the desert’s hot, arid climate, which has made it difficult to estimate its age. The landscape on the surface is a “hot, dry and flat basalt desert”, said Stewart. “But when you are down in the lava tube, it’s much cooler. It’s very sheltered and it would have been a great place of refuge. It’s transforming our understanding of the prehistory of the Arabian peninsula,” he said, as reported by the New Scientist. What did the researchers discover in the lava tube? The researchers, while excavating parts of the underground network at Umm Jirsan, discovered human bones. However, it is believed that they were dragged inside the cave by hyenas. In a different lava tube, Stewart and his colleagues discovered rock art which included representational images of domestic sheep and goats which were likely carved by “cultural contemporaries” of the groups which used the lava tubes as a refuge, he said. Watch: Vampire Bacteria's thirst for human blood, deadly discovery of bacteria According to the analysis of the researchers, the humans were not living in the lava tube for long periods at one given point in time. "The lava tube does not appear to have served as a permanent habitation location, but rather as a site that likely lay on herding routes and that allowed access to shade and water for passing herders and their animals," wrote the authors in the study. "Prior to this, as well as during pastoral periods, the lava tube was likely also linked with hunting activities, which probably remained a cornerstone of local economies into the Bronze Age," they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ancient humans lived in THIS vast lava tube in Saudi Arabia 7,000 years ago

Other countries in West Asia are also facing similar weather conditions. Heavy rain fell in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Yemen and Saudi Arabia. Some of whom experienced flooding, and forecasts are expecting the rain to continue.

Unusual weather patterns cause flooding

Do you know which countries have the most sleep deprived people of the world. A new study says Japan South Korea and Saudi Arabia and while the mention of Japan and South Korea in the list is not shocking it's the inclusion of Saudi Arabia that is surprising...Watch in for more details!

Saudi Arabia third most sleep deprived country in the world

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud today. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to enhanced bilateral strategic and economic partnership. Saudi Arabia's Foreign minister is leading a high-level delegation on a two-day visit to Pakistan.

Pakistan banks on Saudi Arabia's help | Saudi Arabia FM-led delegation on 2-day visit to Pakistan

People of Kerala came together to raise 34 crore rupees in "blood money" to save a man named Abdul Rahim sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia. Rahim was imprisoned for the accidental killing of a specially-abled boy in Saudi.

Gravitas | Locals unite to raise 34 crore rupees for man facing death penalty in Saudi

To deal with New York City's rat infestation lawmakers are proposing contraception as a more Humane option to reduce the population of rats and other rodents in the city in New York City.

Cannes Film Festival: Saudi movie gets Cannes premiere

For the first time ever, Norah, a Saudi film has been named in the Cannes Film Festival's official selection. Watch to know more.

Saudi Arabia scores first Cannes official selections slot with 'Norah'

People in the Indian state of Kerala (living in the state as well has overseas) have rallied together to raise money to save a state native sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia, a report by the news agency PTI on Friday (Apr 12) said. Abdul Rahim was jailed in Saudi Arabia in 2006 for allegedly killing a specially-abled boy he was taking care of.

Rahim was sentenced to death in 2018 after the boy's family refused to grant amnesty.

The PTI report said that an action committee was formed to release Rahim. Until five days ago, the committee could raise only a meagre amount but as the campaign intensified, help poured in from Keralites&nbsp;across the world.

The committee said that the appeals were rejected by the top courts but later the family agreed to pardon Rahim if he paid the "blood money."

Till now, $4.06 million (Rs 34 crore) has been raised for the man's release. Speaking to reporters, a committee organiser said, "More than 75 organisations in Riyadh, Kerala-based businessman Bobby Chemmannur, various political organisations in the state, and the common people all helped us to raise the money."

The action committee had created a mobile application to ensure transparency in the matter.&nbsp;

Chemmanur organised multiple events in the past few days to raise money. He also organised the sale of one of his products and donated the whole amount to the cause, the report added.

Rahim's mother, meanwhile, said that she never thought such an amount could be raised. "I had no hope as we have no means to raise Rs 34 crore. But somehow it was all made possible," she added.

(With inputs from agencies)

People in the Indian state of Kerala (living in the state as well has overseas) have rallied together to raise money to save a state native sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia, a report by the news agency PTI on Friday (Apr 12) said.

People in the Indian state of Kerala (living in the state as well has overseas) have rallied together to raise money to save a state native sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia, a report by the news agency PTI on Friday (Apr 12) said. Abdul Rahim was jailed in Saudi Arabia in 2006 for allegedly killing a specially-abled boy he was taking care of. Rahim was sentenced to death in 2018 after the boy's family refused to grant amnesty. The PTI report said that an action committee was formed to release Rahim. Until five days ago, the committee could raise only a meagre amount but as the campaign intensified, help poured in from Keralites across the world. The committee said that the appeals were rejected by the top courts but later the family agreed to pardon Rahim if he paid the "blood money." Till now, $4.06 million (Rs 34 crore) has been raised for the man's release. Speaking to reporters, a committee organiser said, "More than 75 organisations in Riyadh, Kerala-based businessman Bobby Chemmannur, various political organisations in the state, and the common people all helped us to raise the money." The action committee had created a mobile application to ensure transparency in the matter. Chemmanur organised multiple events in the past few days to raise money. He also organised the sale of one of his products and donated the whole amount to the cause, the report added. Rahim's mother, meanwhile, said that she never thought such an amount could be raised. "I had no hope as we have no means to raise Rs 34 crore. But somehow it was all made possible," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Keralites raise money to release state native facing death penalty in Saudi Arabia: Report

The crescent moon, or Shawwal moon, was not sighted in Saudi Arabia on Monday (Apr 8), so Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on April 10 (Wednesday). It also indicates that Muslims will observe a 30-day fast this Ramadan instead of 29 days.&nbsp;

<h2>About the crescent moon sighting</h2>

Eid-ul-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal and is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, also called the Shawwal moon. It marks the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

Ramadan – the holiest month in the Muslim calendar – began on March 11. During this time, Muslims across the world fast from dawn to dusk and pray while abstaining from eating and drinking. &nbsp;

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In addition to determining the date of Eid-ul-Fitr, the Shawwal crescent moon also marks the beginning of the new month in the Islamic lunar calendar.&nbsp;

Eid-ul-Fitr takes place approximately 10-11 days earlier each year, depending on when the Shawwal crescent moon is sighted because the lunar calendar is shorter than the solar-based Gregorian calendar, which most of the world follows.

“Supreme Court declares tomorrow the last day of #Ramadan and Wednesday the first day of #Eid Al-Fitr,” said the official Saudi Press Agency, in a post on X.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia is home to Islam’s holiest shrines and holds significance, not only in India but in many countries across the world.&nbsp;

<h2>Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: When will different countries celebrate it?</h2>

Eid-ul-Fitr will also be celebrated in Australia, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Australian Fatwa Council also announced marking Eid on April 10, as did the UK’s Markazi Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith.&nbsp;

Muslims in India and other South Asian countries will continue to fast on Wednesday and Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Thursday (Apr 11).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/russian-boy-genius-who-claims-he-lived-on-mars-in-former-life-leaves-scientists-baffled-709122">Russian genius who claims he lived on Mars in previous life leaves scientists baffled</a>

In several South Asian countries, the night before Eid-ul-Fitr is also called Chand Raat, where “chand” means moon and “raat” means night.&nbsp;

It is a festive night where people go out shopping, people celebrate by eating sweets, exchanging gifts and greeting each other by saying Eid Mubarak.&nbsp;

In Pakistan, the Met Office predicted that the Shawwal moon was expected to be sighted on April 9.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The crescent moon, or Shawwal moon, was not sighted in Saudi Arabia on Monday (Apr 8), so Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on April 10 (Wednesday). It also indicates that Muslims will observe a 30-day fast this Ramadan instead of 29 days.

The crescent moon, or Shawwal moon, was not sighted in Saudi Arabia on Monday (Apr 8), so Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on April 10 (Wednesday). It also indicates that Muslims will observe a 30-day fast this Ramadan instead of 29 days. About the crescent moon sighting Eid-ul-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal and is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, also called the Shawwal moon. It marks the culmination of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan – the holiest month in the Muslim calendar – began on March 11. During this time, Muslims across the world fast from dawn to dusk and pray while abstaining from eating and drinking. Also Read | Peak totality of solar eclipse thrills with unreal darkness in Central and North America In addition to determining the date of Eid-ul-Fitr, the Shawwal crescent moon also marks the beginning of the new month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Eid-ul-Fitr takes place approximately 10-11 days earlier each year, depending on when the Shawwal crescent moon is sighted because the lunar calendar is shorter than the solar-based Gregorian calendar, which most of the world follows. “Supreme Court declares tomorrow the last day of #Ramadan and Wednesday the first day of #Eid Al-Fitr,” said the official Saudi Press Agency, in a post on X. Saudi Arabia is home to Islam’s holiest shrines and holds significance, not only in India but in many countries across the world. Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: When will different countries celebrate it? Eid-ul-Fitr will also be celebrated in Australia, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Wednesday. The Australian Fatwa Council also announced marking Eid on April 10, as did the UK’s Markazi Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith. Muslims in India and other South Asian countries will continue to fast on Wednesday and Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Thursday (Apr 11). Also Read | Russian genius who claims he lived on Mars in previous life leaves scientists baffled In several South Asian countries, the night before Eid-ul-Fitr is also called Chand Raat, where “chand” means moon and “raat” means night. It is a festive night where people go out shopping, people celebrate by eating sweets, exchanging gifts and greeting each other by saying Eid Mubarak. In Pakistan, the Met Office predicted that the Shawwal moon was expected to be sighted on April 9. (With inputs from agencies)

Eid-ul-Fitr 2024: Shawwal moon not sighted in Saudi Arabia; Eid on Wednesday

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held bilateral talks with Pakistan's Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Safa Palace in Mecca. In a joint statement, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have underscored the need for dialogue between India and Pakistan to resolve their 'outstanding issues', particularly the Kashmir issue.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif meets Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Is Pakistan trying to revive talks with India? Following a meeting between Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a joint statement emphasized on the need for talks between India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir dispute. While India has maintained it seeks normal ties with its neighbours, New Delhi says that talks can only happen in an environment free of terrorism, hostility and violence.

Gravitas: Bankrupt Pak refuses to end Kashmir obsession | Saudi urges India-Pakistan 'dialogue'

Echoing Delhi's stance, Saudi Arabia called on India and Pakistan to resolve their issues, including Kashmir, bilaterally. The development comes even as Saudi Arabia and Pakistan issued a joint statement in which Kashmir was mentioned.

The statement said, both countries "stressed the importance of dialogue between Pakistan &amp; India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to ensure peace and stability in the region".

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan: Vehicle carrying Chinese nationals was not even bulletproof, says report

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The statement was released during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehnaz Sharif's Saudi Arabia visit. The visit was the first foreign visit undertaken by Pakistan's PM after taking charge earlier this year.&nbsp;

Notably, the joint statement made no references to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions on Kashmir, diverging from Pakistan's traditional stance. Instead, the emphasis was placed on the bilateral framework, something that is established under the Shimla Pact, echoing India's position on resolving disputes directly between both parties.

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The 2021 Pakistan-Saudi Arabia joint statement also used the same formulation. Additionally, during that joint statement, the Saudi crown prince welcomed the ceasefire agreement between India and the Pakistan Army on February 25, 2021.

The joint statement reflects Riyadh's continued support for India's position on Kashmir. It also underscores the growing strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and India. The rapport between PM Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is well known, with both leaders engaging on several fronts, including India's Middle East Europe corridor on the sidelines of the Delhi G20 Summit.&nbsp;

The Pakistan-Saudi Arabia joint statement is in contrast to Pakistan-China joint statements issued in the past, in which Kashmir has been mentioned with reference to UNSC resolutions.&nbsp;

Echoing Delhi's stance, Saudi Arabia called on India and Pakistan to resolve their issues, including Kashmir, bilaterally. The development comes even as Saudi Arabia and Pakistan issued a joint statement in which Kashmir was mentioned.

Echoing Delhi's stance, Saudi Arabia called on India and Pakistan to resolve their issues, including Kashmir, bilaterally. The development comes even as Saudi Arabia and Pakistan issued a joint statement in which Kashmir was mentioned. The statement said, both countries "stressed the importance of dialogue between Pakistan & India to resolve the outstanding issues between the two countries, especially the Jammu and Kashmir dispute to ensure peace and stability in the region". Watch: Pakistan: Vehicle carrying Chinese nationals was not even bulletproof, says report × The statement was released during Pakistan Prime Minister Shehnaz Sharif's Saudi Arabia visit. The visit was the first foreign visit undertaken by Pakistan's PM after taking charge earlier this year. Notably, the joint statement made no references to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions on Kashmir, diverging from Pakistan's traditional stance. Instead, the emphasis was placed on the bilateral framework, something that is established under the Shimla Pact, echoing India's position on resolving disputes directly between both parties. Also read: Pakistan security forces eliminate 12 terrorists in three anti-terror operations across country The 2021 Pakistan-Saudi Arabia joint statement also used the same formulation. Additionally, during that joint statement, the Saudi crown prince welcomed the ceasefire agreement between India and the Pakistan Army on February 25, 2021. The joint statement reflects Riyadh's continued support for India's position on Kashmir. It also underscores the growing strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and India. The rapport between PM Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is well known, with both leaders engaging on several fronts, including India's Middle East Europe corridor on the sidelines of the Delhi G20 Summit. The Pakistan-Saudi Arabia joint statement is in contrast to Pakistan-China joint statements issued in the past, in which Kashmir has been mentioned with reference to UNSC resolutions.

Echoing Delhi’s stance, Saudi Arabia calls on India, Pak to resolve Kashmir dispute bilaterally

Saudi Arabia has scaled back its medium-term ambitions for the development of Neom. The project is a part of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman’s plans for diversifying the oil-dependent West Asian economy.

Neom Project is part of larger plans for diversifying oil-dependent economy

In March the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia made headlines after it was reported that the country will be sending a contestant to participate in the Miss Universe contest this year. Now the organizers have refuted reports. Watch to know more!

Miss Universe on Saudi participation: False and misleading

Saudi Arabia is not joining the Miss Universe pageant but the organiser of the peagant refutes the claims. Watch in for more details!

Miss Universe denies Saudi Arabia's participation in 2024 contest, organiser refutes claims

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's plan to visit Saudi Arabia this week has been postponed as he is recovering from a "cracked rib". White House said on Wednesday (Apr 3) that the health issue has affected his ability to travel.&nbsp;

Sullivan was due to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discuss a potential mega-deal. America is also hoping to normalise the relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Reports have mentioned that Saudi Arabia wants to clinch a mutual defence pact with Washington and get US&nbsp;support for its civil nuclear programme&nbsp;as part of a deal.&nbsp;

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White House spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that the injury "has affected his ability to travel". He added that "this was a minor accident of his own. It was not caused by anybody. It was not the result of a nefarious act."&nbsp;

Kirby said Sullivan looks forward to rescheduling the trip, however, the date hasn't been set yet.&nbsp;

Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, calls have been made to open diplomatic channels and resume talks to stop war. The talks to de-escalate tension in the West Asia region had been put on ice in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 attack by Palestinian Hamas fighters on southern Israel. The attack led to Israel's subsequent assault on Hamas-ruled Gaza. But conversations have resumed in recent months.&nbsp;

Earlier on Marcg 21, US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US and Saudi Arabia had made "good progress" in talks on normalising ties between the kingdom and Israel, without providing a timeline for concluding a deal.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-severe-storms-sweep-across-central-and-eastern-regions-707360">Severe storms sweep across central and eastern regions in US</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Will California blossom this spring?&nbsp;

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<h2>Sullivan's visit to India&nbsp;</h2>

Sullivan is expected to travel to Delhi the week after next where he will hold key talks with his Indian counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval.&nbsp;

It is expected that the main agenda for Sullivan's visit revolves around the review of the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative, with a focus on ongoing efforts to bolster strategic technology partnerships and defence industrial cooperation between the United States and India.&nbsp;

Sullivan is likely to be in Delhi around April 18.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's plan to visit Saudi Arabia this week has been postponed as he is recovering from a "cracked rib". White House said on Wednesday (Apr 3) that the health issue has affected his ability to travel.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan's plan to visit Saudi Arabia this week has been postponed as he is recovering from a "cracked rib". White House said on Wednesday (Apr 3) that the health issue has affected his ability to travel. Sullivan was due to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and discuss a potential mega-deal. America is also hoping to normalise the relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Reports have mentioned that Saudi Arabia wants to clinch a mutual defence pact with Washington and get US support for its civil nuclear programme as part of a deal. Also read: World’s oldest man, Juan Vicente Pérez Mora, dies at the age of 114 White House spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that the injury "has affected his ability to travel". He added that "this was a minor accident of his own. It was not caused by anybody. It was not the result of a nefarious act." Kirby said Sullivan looks forward to rescheduling the trip, however, the date hasn't been set yet. Amid the ongoing war in Gaza, calls have been made to open diplomatic channels and resume talks to stop war. The talks to de-escalate tension in the West Asia region had been put on ice in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 attack by Palestinian Hamas fighters on southern Israel. The attack led to Israel's subsequent assault on Hamas-ruled Gaza. But conversations have resumed in recent months. Earlier on Marcg 21, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the US and Saudi Arabia had made "good progress" in talks on normalising ties between the kingdom and Israel, without providing a timeline for concluding a deal. Also read: Severe storms sweep across central and eastern regions in US Watch: Will California blossom this spring? × Sullivan's visit to India Sullivan is expected to travel to Delhi the week after next where he will hold key talks with his Indian counterpart, NSA Ajit Doval. It is expected that the main agenda for Sullivan's visit revolves around the review of the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative, with a focus on ongoing efforts to bolster strategic technology partnerships and defence industrial cooperation between the United States and India. Sullivan is likely to be in Delhi around April 18. (With inputs from agencies)

White House: Jake Sullivan’s plan to visit Saudi Arabia postponed due to ‘cracked rib’

A week after Saudi model Rumy Alqahtani announced her participation at the Miss Universe pageant as the first-ever participant from Saudi Arabia, the pageant organisers have denied the country's participation at this year's contest. 
 
The selection process has not been carried out in the kingdom, Miss Universe said in a statement to the media adding that it is undergoing a “rigorous vetting process.” 
 
Is Saudi Arabia part of Miss Universe pageant? 
 
“While Saudi Arabia is not yet among those countries fully confirmed participating this year, we are currently undergoing a rigorous vetting process qualifying a potential candidate to be awarded the franchise and assigned a national director to represent,” the statement said. 
 
“Saudi Arabia will not have this opportunity to join our prestigious pageant until this is final and confirmed by our approval committee,” it added. 
 
The statement comes after Miss Saudi Arabia Rumy Alqahtani took to social media last week to announce her participation in the beauty pageant this year. She claimed she would be “the first participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe pageant.” She has not removed the post from her Instagram account.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-meet-rumy-alqahtani-the-first-ever-contestant-from-saudi-arabia-at-miss-universe-2024-pageant-704861">Meet Rumy Alqahtani, the first-ever contestant from Saudi Arabia at Miss Universe 2024 pageant</a>

More about Miss Universe 2024 
 
According to the pageant's official website, "The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) is a global, inclusive organization that celebrates all cultures, backgrounds and religions. We create and provide a safe space for women to share their stories and drive impact personally, professionally, and philanthropically." 
 
This year, the pageant will be held in Mexico in September 2024.

A week after Saudi model Rumy Alqahtani announced her participation at the Miss Universe pageant as the first-ever participant from Saudi Arabia, the pageant organisers have denied the country's participation at this year's contest.

A week after Saudi model Rumy Alqahtani announced her participation at the Miss Universe pageant as the first-ever participant from Saudi Arabia, the pageant organisers have denied the country's participation at this year's contest. The selection process has not been carried out in the kingdom, Miss Universe said in a statement to the media adding that it is undergoing a “rigorous vetting process.” Is Saudi Arabia part of Miss Universe pageant? “While Saudi Arabia is not yet among those countries fully confirmed participating this year, we are currently undergoing a rigorous vetting process qualifying a potential candidate to be awarded the franchise and assigned a national director to represent,” the statement said. “Saudi Arabia will not have this opportunity to join our prestigious pageant until this is final and confirmed by our approval committee,” it added. The statement comes after Miss Saudi Arabia Rumy Alqahtani took to social media last week to announce her participation in the beauty pageant this year. She claimed she would be “the first participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Miss Universe pageant.” She has not removed the post from her Instagram account. Meet Rumy Alqahtani, the first-ever contestant from Saudi Arabia at Miss Universe 2024 pageant More about Miss Universe 2024 According to the pageant's official website, "The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) is a global, inclusive organization that celebrates all cultures, backgrounds and religions. We create and provide a safe space for women to share their stories and drive impact personally, professionally, and philanthropically." This year, the pageant will be held in Mexico in September 2024.

Is Saudi Arabia participating at Miss Universe 2024? Pageant organisers respond

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