A new national airline will be launched in Saudi Arabia&nbsp;as part of a strategy to develop Riyadh into a worldwide aviation hub that can compete with regional aviation giants such as Dubai and Doha, as reported by AFP.

By 2030, Riyadh Air "aims to launch&nbsp;flights to more than 100 destinations around&nbsp;the world," according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the country's official news agency.

SPA announced the appointment of Tony Douglas, a former CEO of Etihad Airlines, located in Abu Dhabi, to run the airline.

As part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's comprehensive "Vision 2030" reform agenda, the Saudi government is pursuing lofty aviation targets, including more than doubling annual traffic to 330 million passengers by the end of the decade. Up to five million tonnes of freight each year are also among its goals.

The new airline is the latest in "a huge package of projects" that will "consolidate our country's position as an international hub for aviation and a global logistics centre", Saudi transport minister Saleh Al-Jasser said on Twitter.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Neighbours react to Iran-Saudi reconciliation; new deal to end violence in Yemen

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Officials unveiled plans for a new airport in the Saudi capital of Riyadh in November 2022. The airport will be 57 square kilometres (22 square miles) in size and have enough for 120 million passengers by 2030 and 185 million passengers by 2050.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/saudi-oil-giant-aramco-reports-record-profit-of-1611-billion-in-2022-571141">Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022</a>

The Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund that will run the airline, was "close to a deal" with Boeing for an aircraft purchase "valued at $35 billion," according to the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

Sunday's announcement said Riyadh Air would operate a "fleet of advanced aircraft", but did not specify how big the fleet would be or from where it would be sourced.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A new national airline will be launched in Saudi Arabia as part of a strategy to develop Riyadh into a worldwide aviation hub that can compete with regional aviation giants such as Dubai and Doha, as reported by AFP.

A new national airline will be launched in Saudi Arabia as part of a strategy to develop Riyadh into a worldwide aviation hub that can compete with regional aviation giants such as Dubai and Doha, as reported by AFP. By 2030, Riyadh Air "aims to launch flights to more than 100 destinations around the world," according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the country's official news agency. SPA announced the appointment of Tony Douglas, a former CEO of Etihad Airlines, located in Abu Dhabi, to run the airline. As part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's comprehensive "Vision 2030" reform agenda, the Saudi government is pursuing lofty aviation targets, including more than doubling annual traffic to 330 million passengers by the end of the decade. Up to five million tonnes of freight each year are also among its goals. The new airline is the latest in "a huge package of projects" that will "consolidate our country's position as an international hub for aviation and a global logistics centre", Saudi transport minister Saleh Al-Jasser said on Twitter. ALSO WATCH | Neighbours react to Iran-Saudi reconciliation; new deal to end violence in Yemen Officials unveiled plans for a new airport in the Saudi capital of Riyadh in November 2022. The airport will be 57 square kilometres (22 square miles) in size and have enough for 120 million passengers by 2030 and 185 million passengers by 2050. ALSO READ | Saudi oil giant Aramco's annual profit soars to record high in 2022 The Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund that will run the airline, was "close to a deal" with Boeing for an aircraft purchase "valued at $35 billion," according to the Wall Street Journal. Sunday's announcement said Riyadh Air would operate a "fleet of advanced aircraft", but did not specify how big the fleet would be or from where it would be sourced. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Saudi Arabia launches new airline, plans to turn Riyadh into aviation hub

The decision by Iran and Saudi Arabia to re-establish diplomatic ties after years of tensions is being welcomed by their neighbours that were caught in conflict fueled by the two regional superpowers. Watch the video to know more.

Neighbours react to Iran-Saudi reconciliation; new deal to end violence in Yemen

Will the truce between Saudi Arabia and Iran which was mediated by China, spell the decline of U.S. influence in the region? Ambassador Jorge Heine, a Research Professor at Boston University weighs in on the growing influence of China in West Asia, in an exclusive chat with WION.

Saudi Arabia-Iran truce: China's rampaging rise in West Asia

The surprise deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia to restore diplomatic ties offers much for the United States to be intrigued about, including a possible path to rein in Tehran's nuclear program and a chance to cement a ceasefire in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia and Iran resume ties after seven years

China's role in Saudi-Iran deal a tricky test for the U.S.

Step by systematic step, Chinese President Xi Jinping is moving closer to his ambition to turn his country into a power that can match or surpass the United States as the global military, economic and diplomatic leader.

The latest move to fulfil that ambition was a Chinese-brokered breakthrough agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, long rivals for Middle Eastern dominance, to re-establish diplomatic relations and reopen their embassies after a seven-year rupture.

It was not by coincidence that the agreement, announced in the Saudi capital of Riyadh, coincided with a unanimous vote – 2,952-0 – in Beijing by the National People’s Congress to give Xi another five years in power, a third term without precedent.

The rapprochement prompted swift applause and thanks to China from the United Nations, with spokesperson Stephane Dujarric saying that “good neighbourly relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia are essential for the stability of the Gulf region.”

It is a region where the United States has been the dominant power broker for decades but the White House scoffed at suggestions that the Saudi-Iran agreement was a sign of waning American influence.

“I would stridently push back on the idea that we are stepping back in the Middle East – far from it,” John Kirby, the spokesman of the National Security Council told reporters. But Mark Dubowitz, head of the hawkish anti-Iranian Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, saw it as “a lose, lose, lose for American interests.”

In September 2020, Washington’s power to influence competing powers in the Middle East was highlighted by US-brokered agreements by Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to establish formal relations.

The so-called Abraham Accords were signed at the White House and then President Donald Trump hailed it as a significant foreign policy win.

China’s show of diplomatic muscle in the Middle East, with its role in the Saudi-Iran agreement, complements a systematic increase in Chinese involvement in Africa for the past two decades. With its Belt and Road Initiative, China grew political influence and commercial relationships through lending for infrastructure and mining projects throughout the continent.

America’s diminished influence in Africa, often reflected by abstentions or anti-US&nbsp;votes in the UN&nbsp;General Assembly, alarmed the administration of President Joe Biden enough to call a summit last December of almost 50 African heads of government. But whether that will dent China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner remains to be seen.

Why is the Saudi-Iran agreement important? For one, it might help to end the long and brutal war in Yemen, where Iran is backing Houthi rebels who are fighting their Saudi-backed government antagonists.

Optimists might feel that the new agreement could also lessen centuries-old animosity between adherents of Islam’s two main strands. Saudi Arabia portrays itself as the keeper of the Sunni faith while Iran sees itself as the protector of the Shia minority.

It was a Sunni-Shia conflict that led to the break in relations between Riyadh and Tehran: In 2016, Iranian protesters invaded Saudi diplomatic posts in Iran in retaliation for the execution of a prominent Shia cleric, Nimr Baqir al-Nimr. A critic of the Saudi government, he was beheaded, along with 46 people executed for alleged terrorism offences.

A year later, Saudi Arabia blamed Iran for a series of attacks on oil installations, including one that temporarily cut Saudi oil production by almost half. Iran denied the action.

Analysts say that the Chinese-brokered agreement is likely to dim American hopes to broker a peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia to forge a united front against Iran, whose apparent progress towards building a nuclear bomb is a matter of great concern, not only for the US&nbsp;and the region but also the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Will there be Middle East stability in our time? Don’t bet on it. Will China, the world’s most populous country, eventually overtake the United States? Time will tell.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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Step by systematic step, Chinese President Xi Jinping is moving closer to his ambition to turn his country into a power that can match or surpass the United States as the global military, economic and diplomatic leader.

Step by systematic step, Chinese President Xi Jinping is moving closer to his ambition to turn his country into a power that can match or surpass the United States as the global military, economic and diplomatic leader. The latest move to fulfil that ambition was a Chinese-brokered breakthrough agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, long rivals for Middle Eastern dominance, to re-establish diplomatic relations and reopen their embassies after a seven-year rupture. It was not by coincidence that the agreement, announced in the Saudi capital of Riyadh, coincided with a unanimous vote – 2,952-0 – in Beijing by the National People’s Congress to give Xi another five years in power, a third term without precedent. The rapprochement prompted swift applause and thanks to China from the United Nations, with spokesperson Stephane Dujarric saying that “good neighbourly relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia are essential for the stability of the Gulf region.” It is a region where the United States has been the dominant power broker for decades but the White House scoffed at suggestions that the Saudi-Iran agreement was a sign of waning American influence. “I would stridently push back on the idea that we are stepping back in the Middle East – far from it,” John Kirby, the spokesman of the National Security Council told reporters. But Mark Dubowitz, head of the hawkish anti-Iranian Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, saw it as “a lose, lose, lose for American interests.” In September 2020, Washington’s power to influence competing powers in the Middle East was highlighted by US-brokered agreements by Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain to establish formal relations. The so-called Abraham Accords were signed at the White House and then President Donald Trump hailed it as a significant foreign policy win. China’s show of diplomatic muscle in the Middle East, with its role in the Saudi-Iran agreement, complements a systematic increase in Chinese involvement in Africa for the past two decades. With its Belt and Road Initiative, China grew political influence and commercial relationships through lending for infrastructure and mining projects throughout the continent. America’s diminished influence in Africa, often reflected by abstentions or anti-US votes in the UN General Assembly, alarmed the administration of President Joe Biden enough to call a summit last December of almost 50 African heads of government. But whether that will dent China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner remains to be seen. Why is the Saudi-Iran agreement important? For one, it might help to end the long and brutal war in Yemen, where Iran is backing Houthi rebels who are fighting their Saudi-backed government antagonists. Optimists might feel that the new agreement could also lessen centuries-old animosity between adherents of Islam’s two main strands. Saudi Arabia portrays itself as the keeper of the Sunni faith while Iran sees itself as the protector of the Shia minority. It was a Sunni-Shia conflict that led to the break in relations between Riyadh and Tehran: In 2016, Iranian protesters invaded Saudi diplomatic posts in Iran in retaliation for the execution of a prominent Shia cleric, Nimr Baqir al-Nimr. A critic of the Saudi government, he was beheaded, along with 46 people executed for alleged terrorism offences. A year later, Saudi Arabia blamed Iran for a series of attacks on oil installations, including one that temporarily cut Saudi oil production by almost half. Iran denied the action. Analysts say that the Chinese-brokered agreement is likely to dim American hopes to broker a peace deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia to forge a united front against Iran, whose apparent progress towards building a nuclear bomb is a matter of great concern, not only for the US and the region but also the International Atomic Energy Agency. Will there be Middle East stability in our time? Don’t bet on it. Will China, the world’s most populous country, eventually overtake the United States? Time will tell. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Saudi-Iran deal highlights China’s growing global influence

Iran & Saudi Arabia have decided to normalise relations in an agreement brokered by China. How did Beijing pull off this diplomatic coup? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: China brokers truce between Iran & Saudi Arabia

Iran and Saudi Arabia have agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations and reopen embassies after talks in Beijing between officials from the two rival Middle East powers.

Gravitas: Iran, Saudi Arabia restore relations in deal brokered by China

Saudi Arabia is demanding security guarantees and help in the development of its civilian nuclear programme from the United States, as the latter is trying to broker its peace deal with Israel, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal.

Reaching a normalisation deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel has become a priority for Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and United States President Joe Biden as chances of confrontation with Iran, over its military aid to Russia amid the Ukraine war and the nuclear programme, remain high.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-unveils-budget-plans-in-pennsylvania-raises-taxes-on-wealthy-citizens-570402">Biden unveils $6.8 trillion budget plan, raises taxes for wealthy citizens</a>

The reports stated the deep involvement of the Biden administration in the complex negotiations, adding that any deal would reshape the political landscape of the Middle East.

The demands made by Saudi Arabia for nuclear aid and security guarantees stand as daunting obstacles amid the deal, as the measures are likely to be opposed by some Washington lawmakers.

Riyadh is cautious about striking a deal that is likely to come under fire in the Arab world and aggravate tensions with Iran.

Former U.S. ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro, who is a distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council and now works towards strengthening Israel-Arab world ties, said that the potential deal is “a very tough Gordian knot to cut.”

WATCH | Joe Biden lays out budget plan, challenges Republicans to do same

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“Normalisation between Israel and Saudi Arabia, facilitated by the United States, is in all three parties’ interests,” he stated. “But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to arrange,” Shapiro added.

However, US, Saudi and Israeli officials said that there is the possibility for the deal to happen. Netanyahu is aiming to build Israeli ties to the Arab world which expanded in 2020 with the Abraham Accords.

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Saudi Arabia is demanding security guarantees and help in the development of its civilian nuclear programme from the United States, as the latter is trying to broker its peace deal with Israel, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal.

Saudi Arabia is demanding security guarantees and help in the development of its civilian nuclear programme from the United States, as the latter is trying to broker its peace deal with Israel, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal. Reaching a normalisation deal between Saudi Arabia and Israel has become a priority for Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and United States President Joe Biden as chances of confrontation with Iran, over its military aid to Russia amid the Ukraine war and the nuclear programme, remain high. ALSO READ | Biden unveils $6.8 trillion budget plan, raises taxes for wealthy citizens The reports stated the deep involvement of the Biden administration in the complex negotiations, adding that any deal would reshape the political landscape of the Middle East. The demands made by Saudi Arabia for nuclear aid and security guarantees stand as daunting obstacles amid the deal, as the measures are likely to be opposed by some Washington lawmakers. Riyadh is cautious about striking a deal that is likely to come under fire in the Arab world and aggravate tensions with Iran. Former U.S. ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro, who is a distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council and now works towards strengthening Israel-Arab world ties, said that the potential deal is “a very tough Gordian knot to cut.” WATCH | Joe Biden lays out budget plan, challenges Republicans to do same “Normalisation between Israel and Saudi Arabia, facilitated by the United States, is in all three parties’ interests,” he stated. “But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to arrange,” Shapiro added. However, US, Saudi and Israeli officials said that there is the possibility for the deal to happen. Netanyahu is aiming to build Israeli ties to the Arab world which expanded in 2020 with the Abraham Accords. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Saudi Arabia demands US security pledges, nuclear help for peace deal with Israel: report

With China at the centre of the geopolitical picture, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to restore diplomatic ties after their seven years of bilateral estrangement in West Asia. The deal, which entails Iran and Saudi Arabia reopening their embassies and missions in each other’s cities within two months, indicates a shifting of sands&nbsp;in Beijing's favour in a region where&nbsp;the United States has waged conflicts&nbsp;and spent hundreds of billions of dollars in providing security for its allies.&nbsp;

"The agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which China mediated, reflects a new reality in West Asia, namely, that China is now a geopolitical and economic power in the region with the ability to influence bilateral relationships and security dynamics," Washington-based Middle East Institute's Mohammed Soliman, the intellectual architect of I2U2 (India, Israel, United Arab Emirates and the United States) group told WION.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-agree-to-restore-relations-report-570638">Iran and Saudi Arabia agree to restore diplomatic ties, reopen embassies</a>

While the spotlight is on China's increasing influence in West Asia as it wades from economic sphere to substantive mediation efforts in the region, it does not displace the United States as the primary security actor in the Gulf, argues Anna Jacobs, senior Gulf Analyst at Brussels-based International Crisis Group.

Saudi Arabia is the largest Foreign Military Sales customer of the United States, with over $100 billion in active FMS cases, according to the latest data published by the US State Department.&nbsp;

"However, China-brokered Saudi-Iran deal does reflect Beijing's increasing influence in the Gulf beyond the economic sphere. China seems ready to wade more substantively into dialogue and mediation efforts in the region, which reflects China's rising geopolitical clout," Jacobs added.

<h2>Beijing's diplomacy outfoxes West</h2>

China in recent years has spent significant diplomatic capital to build closer economic ties with Iran and Saudi Arabia, the Shia and Sunni powerhouses of the Islamic world rivalling each other's geostrategic trajectories.&nbsp;

"The Saudi-Iran deal shows a desire from both countries to deal with their differences through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than conflict and proxy competition," Jacobs said.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping raised the idea of the talks most recently during a state visit to Riyadh in December, according to people familiar with the matter cited by the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: China, Iran &amp; Russia to create a new World Order?

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While Riyadh is an important oil supplier to the world’s second-largest economy, Beijing has made a special effort to make significant oil purchases from Tehran despite the United States-led sanctions against Iran for its reported nuclear belligerence in the region.&nbsp;

<h2>Saudi-Iran ties: The hostilities of recent past</h2>

The Saudi-Iran ties soured in January 2016 after the execution of a prominent Saudi Arabia Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Nimr Baqir al-Nimr, commonly referred to as Sheikh Nimr. Following the execution, a mob in Tehran stormed the Saudi embassy while another set the Saudi consulate in Mashhad on fire. Mashhad is Iran's second most populous city located about 900 km east of Tehran.&nbsp;

The already strained Saudi-Iran ties were severed shortly after.&nbsp;

In 2019, the two sides were on the brink of war when Iran was blamed for missile and drone attacks on a Saudi oil field.

<h2>Saudi-Iran ties restored: Implications for conflicts in West Asia</h2>

Since the beginning of the civil war in Yemen in 2014, Iran has been accused of backing Houthi rebels in Yemen, a Shiite movement fighting Yemen's Sunni-dominated government. But as part of the deal, Iran has reportedly pledged to halt attacks against Saudi Arabia, including from Houthi rebels it has admitted supporting 'politically' in the past.

"It would be difficult for Saudi Arabia to agree to a roadmap for normalising relations with Iran without serious security assurances from Iran in Yemen, as well as on a host of other issues," Jacobs said, reflecting on the importance of restoration of a number of bilateral agreements between Tehran and Riyadh after Friday's breakthrough, including a Security Cooperation Agreement.&nbsp;

But Soliman urges caution on a wider expectation related to the cessation of hostilities in the region.&nbsp;

"There are no clear guarantees from China that it might push Iran to change its approach to the region, particularly in Yemen," Soliman advises.&nbsp;

In Yemen, a United Nations-negotiated ceasefire between the Houthi rebels and Yemeni government expired in October 2022 but a de-facto truce continues to remain in place, leading to a&nbsp;pause in fighting.&nbsp;

After Friday's breakthrough, the need for a more permanent ceasefire in Yemen are being felt.&nbsp;

"In Yemen, there is already a de-facto truce without a formal truce, which has been positive, but the Saudi-Iran deal suggests there could be a more permanent ceasefire deal in the making in Yemen," Jacobs said.&nbsp;

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With China at the centre of the geopolitical picture, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to restore diplomatic ties after their seven years of bilateral estrangement in West Asia.

With China at the centre of the geopolitical picture, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to restore diplomatic ties after their seven years of bilateral estrangement in West Asia. The deal, which entails Iran and Saudi Arabia reopening their embassies and missions in each other’s cities within two months, indicates a shifting of sands in Beijing's favour in a region where the United States has waged conflicts and spent hundreds of billions of dollars in providing security for its allies. "The agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which China mediated, reflects a new reality in West Asia, namely, that China is now a geopolitical and economic power in the region with the ability to influence bilateral relationships and security dynamics," Washington-based Middle East Institute's Mohammed Soliman, the intellectual architect of I2U2 (India, Israel, United Arab Emirates and the United States) group told WION. ALSO READ | Iran and Saudi Arabia agree to restore diplomatic ties, reopen embassies While the spotlight is on China's increasing influence in West Asia as it wades from economic sphere to substantive mediation efforts in the region, it does not displace the United States as the primary security actor in the Gulf, argues Anna Jacobs, senior Gulf Analyst at Brussels-based International Crisis Group. Saudi Arabia is the largest Foreign Military Sales customer of the United States, with over $100 billion in active FMS cases, according to the latest data published by the US State Department. "However, China-brokered Saudi-Iran deal does reflect Beijing's increasing influence in the Gulf beyond the economic sphere. China seems ready to wade more substantively into dialogue and mediation efforts in the region, which reflects China's rising geopolitical clout," Jacobs added. Beijing's diplomacy outfoxes West China in recent years has spent significant diplomatic capital to build closer economic ties with Iran and Saudi Arabia, the Shia and Sunni powerhouses of the Islamic world rivalling each other's geostrategic trajectories. "The Saudi-Iran deal shows a desire from both countries to deal with their differences through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than conflict and proxy competition," Jacobs said. Chinese leader Xi Jinping raised the idea of the talks most recently during a state visit to Riyadh in December, according to people familiar with the matter cited by the Wall Street Journal. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas Plus: China, Iran & Russia to create a new World Order? × While Riyadh is an important oil supplier to the world’s second-largest economy, Beijing has made a special effort to make significant oil purchases from Tehran despite the United States-led sanctions against Iran for its reported nuclear belligerence in the region. Saudi-Iran ties: The hostilities of recent past The Saudi-Iran ties soured in January 2016 after the execution of a prominent Saudi Arabia Shia cleric Ayatollah Sheikh Nimr Baqir al-Nimr, commonly referred to as Sheikh Nimr. Following the execution, a mob in Tehran stormed the Saudi embassy while another set the Saudi consulate in Mashhad on fire. Mashhad is Iran's second most populous city located about 900 km east of Tehran. The already strained Saudi-Iran ties were severed shortly after. In 2019, the two sides were on the brink of war when Iran was blamed for missile and drone attacks on a Saudi oil field. Saudi-Iran ties restored: Implications for conflicts in West Asia Since the beginning of the civil war in Yemen in 2014, Iran has been accused of backing Houthi rebels in Yemen, a Shiite movement fighting Yemen's Sunni-dominated government. But as part of the deal, Iran has reportedly pledged to halt attacks against Saudi Arabia, including from Houthi rebels it has admitted supporting 'politically' in the past. "It would be difficult for Saudi Arabia to agree to a roadmap for normalising relations with Iran without serious security assurances from Iran in Yemen, as well as on a host of other issues," Jacobs said, reflecting on the importance of restoration of a number of bilateral agreements between Tehran and Riyadh after Friday's breakthrough, including a Security Cooperation Agreement. But Soliman urges caution on a wider expectation related to the cessation of hostilities in the region. "There are no clear guarantees from China that it might push Iran to change its approach to the region, particularly in Yemen," Soliman advises. In Yemen, a United Nations-negotiated ceasefire between the Houthi rebels and Yemeni government expired in October 2022 but a de-facto truce continues to remain in place, leading to a pause in fighting. After Friday's breakthrough, the need for a more permanent ceasefire in Yemen are being felt. "In Yemen, there is already a de-facto truce without a formal truce, which has been positive, but the Saudi-Iran deal suggests there could be a more permanent ceasefire deal in the making in Yemen," Jacobs said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West

Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to reestablish diplomatic relations and reopen embassies after years of tensions between the two countries, including a devastating attack on the heart of the kingdom’s oil production attributed to Tehran.

Saudi Arabia to reestablish diplomatic relations with Iran

Iran and Saudi Arabia, regional competitors in West Asia, have agreed to restore diplomatic ties, state media reported.

"Following talks, the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have agreed to resume diplomatic relations and reopen embassies and missions within two months," Iran's&nbsp;official IRNA news agency said, citing a joint statement.

Riyadh had cut ties with Tehran after Iranian protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions in the Islamic republic in 2016 following the Saudi execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr. The two countries have now decided to mutually open diplomatic missions.

The official Saudi Press Agency also published the statement.

Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, had travelled to Beijing on Monday for "intensive negotiations with his Saudi counterpart in China in order to finally resolve the problems between Tehran and Riyadh", IRNA said.

Shiite-majority Iran and Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia support rival sides in several conflict zones across the Middle East, including in Yemen where the Houthi rebels are backed by Tehran, and Riyadh leads a military coalition supporting the government.

Iraq, a neighbour to both countries, had hosted several rounds of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia since April 2021.

Those encounters were held at a relatively low level, involving security and intelligence officials.

In Friday's statement, Iran and Saudi Arabia said they "thank the Republic of Iraq and the Sultanate of Oman for hosting the talks held between the two sides in 2021 and 2022 as well as the leaders and government of the People's Republic of China for hosting and supporting the talks held in that country."

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Iran and Saudi Arabia, regional competitors in West Asia, have agreed to restore diplomatic ties, state media reported. "Following talks, the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have agreed to resume diplomatic relations and reopen embassies and missions within two months," Iran's official IRNA news agency said, citing a joint statement.

Iran and Saudi Arabia, regional competitors in West Asia, have agreed to restore diplomatic ties, state media reported. "Following talks, the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have agreed to resume diplomatic relations and reopen embassies and missions within two months," Iran's official IRNA news agency said, citing a joint statement. Riyadh had cut ties with Tehran after Iranian protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions in the Islamic republic in 2016 following the Saudi execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr. The two countries have now decided to mutually open diplomatic missions. The official Saudi Press Agency also published the statement. Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, had travelled to Beijing on Monday for "intensive negotiations with his Saudi counterpart in China in order to finally resolve the problems between Tehran and Riyadh", IRNA said. Shiite-majority Iran and Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia support rival sides in several conflict zones across the Middle East, including in Yemen where the Houthi rebels are backed by Tehran, and Riyadh leads a military coalition supporting the government. Iraq, a neighbour to both countries, had hosted several rounds of talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia since April 2021. Those encounters were held at a relatively low level, involving security and intelligence officials. In Friday's statement, Iran and Saudi Arabia said they "thank the Republic of Iraq and the Sultanate of Oman for hosting the talks held between the two sides in 2021 and 2022 as well as the leaders and government of the People's Republic of China for hosting and supporting the talks held in that country." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran and Saudi Arabia agree to restore diplomatic ties, reopen embassies: Report

Saudi Arabia said on Monday (March 6) that it was depositing USD 5 billion in Turkey's central bank. This could be a major boost to Turkey which is attempting to contain inflation and aftereffects of the devastating earthquake. Presidential elections are around the corner in Turkey.

Ahmed Al Khateeb, the Saudi tourism minister and board chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development, signed an agreement with&nbsp; 
Turkish central bank governor Sahap Kavcioglu "to make a significant $5 billion deposit", the Saudi government said in a statement.

"This deposit is a testament to the close cooperation and historical ties that exist between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Turkey and its brotherly people," the statement said.&nbsp;

The decision, which will shore up Turkey's foreign reserves and help it combat inflation, was made on the order of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, it said.&nbsp;

The move may signal warming of relation between the two countries post major strains in the aftermath of Jamal Khashoggi killing.

Khashoggi was a major critic of Saudi regime. Saudi agents killed and dismembered Khashoggi in Saudi consulate in Istanbul. His remains were never found. Turkey had angered Saufi Arabia by vigourously pursuing the case and providing lurid details to the world.&nbsp;

US intelligence officials believe the operation was "approved" by Prince Mohammed, though Saudi authorities deny this.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan previously said the "highest levels" of the Saudi government ordered the killing, although he has never blamed Prince Mohammed.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-competition-board-to-fine-elon-musk-01-of-twitters-gross-income-in-turkey-heres-why-569227">Turkish competition board to fine Elon Musk 0.1% of Twitter's gross income in Turkey, here's why</a>

Erdogan has pushed hard to revive bilateral ties, a move analysts describe as largely driven by economic considerations.&nbsp;

Last April, he paid his first visit to Saudi Arabia since the Khashoggi killing, where he met Prince Mohammed before travelling to Mecca.&nbsp;

Prince Mohammed followed with a visit to Ankara in June.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saudi Arabia said on Monday (March 6) that it was depositing USD 5 billion in Turkey's central bank. This could be a major boost to Turkey which is attempting to contain inflation and aftereffects of the devastating earthquake.

Saudi Arabia said on Monday (March 6) that it was depositing USD 5 billion in Turkey's central bank. This could be a major boost to Turkey which is attempting to contain inflation and aftereffects of the devastating earthquake. Presidential elections are around the corner in Turkey. Ahmed Al Khateeb, the Saudi tourism minister and board chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development, signed an agreement with Turkish central bank governor Sahap Kavcioglu "to make a significant $5 billion deposit", the Saudi government said in a statement. "This deposit is a testament to the close cooperation and historical ties that exist between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Turkey and its brotherly people," the statement said. The decision, which will shore up Turkey's foreign reserves and help it combat inflation, was made on the order of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, it said. The move may signal warming of relation between the two countries post major strains in the aftermath of Jamal Khashoggi killing. Khashoggi was a major critic of Saudi regime. Saudi agents killed and dismembered Khashoggi in Saudi consulate in Istanbul. His remains were never found. Turkey had angered Saufi Arabia by vigourously pursuing the case and providing lurid details to the world. US intelligence officials believe the operation was "approved" by Prince Mohammed, though Saudi authorities deny this. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan previously said the "highest levels" of the Saudi government ordered the killing, although he has never blamed Prince Mohammed. Also Read | Turkish competition board to fine Elon Musk 0.1% of Twitter's gross income in Turkey, here's why Erdogan has pushed hard to revive bilateral ties, a move analysts describe as largely driven by economic considerations. Last April, he paid his first visit to Saudi Arabia since the Khashoggi killing, where he met Prince Mohammed before travelling to Mecca. Prince Mohammed followed with a visit to Ankara in June. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Saudi Arabia deposits $5 billion in Turkey's central bank

Saudi Arabia is all set to introduce yoga in its universities. According to Saudi, yoga committee president Nouf Al-Marwaai, several agreements will be signed with major universities to support and promote yoga over the next few months.

Agreements to be signed over next few months to promote Yoga in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is set to introduce yoga in the major universities of the country. Several agreements in the pipeline will be signed with universities to support and promote yoga, according to Saudi Yoga Committee (SYC) President Nouf Al-Marwaai.

Saudi Arabia is set to introduce yoga in the major universities of the country. Several agreements in the pipeline will be signed with universities to support and promote yoga, according to Saudi Yoga Committee (SYC) President Nouf Al-Marwaai. SYC is a body under the Saudi Arabia Olympic Committee, Ministry of Sports. The decision was taken at a forum titled “The Role of University Sports in Supporting the Kingdom’s Vision in Sports,” organised in the capital city of Riyadh where several experts and international leaders registered their presence, according to Arab News. Reflecting on the importance of yoga, SYC chief Al-Marwaai said the decision was taken as part of achieving Vision 2030. “Yoga gives its practitioners many health benefits (for) both physical and mental well-being. One of the most important pillars of achieving Vision 2030 is to enhance participation in sports activities, and to achieve sports excellence locally, continentally, and internationally," she was quoted as saying by Arab News. Al-Marwaai added that the committee will aim to discover yoga talent in the country and hone their skills with the hope that they "represent the Kingdom in local and international tournaments". WATCH | WION Exclusive: Meet the woman, Nouf Marwaai, who brought yoga to Saudi Arabia × Saudi Arabia's first yoga festival Notably, it was in January that Saudi Arabia's first yoga festival was organised. The event took place at Juman Park, King Abdullah Economic City in the city of Jeddah and saw the participation of a number of top Saudi yoga teachers including Marwa Khairudeen and Lana Nazer. Saudi Arabia, in 2022, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with India for the establishment of a formal "yoga protocol (standards)" for the promotion of yoga in the country. This was the first such bilateral cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia on yoga. Read more: Saudi Arabia's first yoga festival organised in Jeddah PM Modi's push for yoga Ever since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power, he has embarked on a mission to popularise yoga and its benefits on the global stage. He proposed June 21 as the date for Yoga Day at the United Nations, noting that it is the longest day of the year. He received overwhelming support from the member countries for his proposal and since then, June 21 is observed as International Yoga Day (IDY) around the world. Despite reservations by a few countries that yoga is related to Hinduism, Saudi Arabia, one of the leaders of the Muslim world has wholeheartedly accepted the philosophy behind yoga. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Yoga set to be introduced in Saudi Arabian universities: Report

British reality TV star Tommy Fury beat American YouTuber Jake Paul on points Sunday in a boxing spectacle intended to boost Saudi Arabia's reputation as a top-flight fight destination.

British reality TV star Tommy Fury beat American YouTuber Jake Paul on points Sunday in a boxing spectacle intended to boost Saudi Arabia's reputation as a top-flight fight destination. Despite suffering a knockdown in the eighth and final round of the cruiserweight contest, Fury won a split decision to the delight of Saudi fans, who shouted "Let's go Tommy" in the closing stages. Addressing the crowd through tears afterwards, Fury, who is the half-brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, but better known for his turn on the dating show Love Island - declared he had "made my own legacy" with the win. Paul, who calls himself "The Problem Child", drew loud boos with his post-fight claim that he "got sick really bad twice in this camp" and "injured my arm", though he added he was "not making excuses". He told reporters that Fury had "impressive combinations" but that the loss was "a reflection of my own performance". "I couldn't get my momentum going like I wanted to and I just felt kind of flat," he said. A triumphant Fury, for his part, boasted that he "showed everybody that I ain't scared of no one and I can cut it in the big dance." Paul first gained fame and millions of followers on the now-defunct social media platform Vine and also YouTube before pivoting to boxing about five years ago. His 6-0 record heading into Sunday's fight, including four knockouts, had come against a ragtag group of opponents that included another YouTuber and three mixed martial arts fighters. Read more: WWE: Sami Zayn should not join forces with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 39, feels wrestling veteran He was out to bolster his credibility against Fury, who was likewise undefeated, though his past opponents were also hardly household names. The two men's unusual backgrounds have led many observers to question whether either should be taken seriously. Saudi officials nevertheless pitched Sunday's event as a sign of the kingdom's growing clout in the boxing world. 'Sportswashing' allegations It built on a 2019 fight billed as the "Clash on the Dunes", in which Anthony Joshua reclaimed his world heavyweight crown from Andy Ruiz, the first time a world heavyweight title fight had been staged in Saudi Arabia. Last year Joshua lost in a split decision to Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk in the "Rage on the Red Sea" in Jeddah. The crowd Sunday included former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, comedian Kevin Hart and Cristiano Ronaldo, who is now playing club football in Saudi Arabia. Saudi officials say there has been a surge of domestic interest in boxing in recent years, with the number of boxing gyms rising from seven to 59. Their goal is to have 500,000 boxers in the kingdom by 2030. They have gloated about being able to stage the Paul-Fury clash after previous attempts to hold it in the United States fell through. "Paul versus Fury has taken a long time and it has finally been made, which is significant for the landscape of boxing in Saudi Arabia," Prince Khalid bin Abdulaziz told a pre-match press conference. "We knew we wanted to stage this fight. We knew its potential and knew we could overcome challenges to make it happen." Saudi fighters Ziyad Almaayouf, who made his professional debut at "Rage on the Red Sea", and Ragad Al Naimi, the kingdom's first female professional boxer, were both victorious in undercard matches on Sunday. Saudi Arabia's boxing push has fuelled allegations of "sportswashing", or the use of athletics to distract from human rights abuses. But Paul downplayed the issue in an interview with AFP. "I take things at face value for how I experience them," he said. "I think there's a lot of judgement online about everyone - people these days, celebrities, countries and so on and so forth - but I've had nothing but great experiences." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tommy Fury pips YouTuber Jake Paul with a stunning split decision win

Al Nassr's Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated Saudi Arabia's Founding Day. Enjoying a celebratory day out with teammates & officials, Ronaldo performed the Ardha dance. Ronaldo wore the national dress & wielded the sword at the Mrsool Park on Feb 22.

Christiano Ronaldo joins Al Nassr's Saudi Arabia Founding Day

Earlier this week, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) announced the plans for a new ambitious development project to build in the country’s capital Riyadh, named, “The Mukaab” which means a cube in Arabic. According to the developers, the structure will&nbsp;become the largest inner-city building in the world. The skyscraper would be large enough to hold 20 Empire State Buildings and would house hundreds of thousands of residents.&nbsp;

What we know so far

Plans for the Mukaab or New Murabba downtown were announced on February 16 by MBS who is also the Chairman of the New Murabba Development Company (NMDC). The aforementioned company is a newly founded business venture by the Saudi Crown Prince and will&nbsp;manage the project. It aims to develop the world’s largest modern downtown in Riyadh, in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The skyscraper will be in the shape of a cube measuring 400 metres in height, 400 metres in width, and 400 metres in length.&nbsp; 
 
The design for the cube is said to be the region’s traditional Najdi architectural style. The Mukaab will be developed by Saudi Arabia’s NMDC using the Kingdom's Public Investment Fund (PIF) which is the MBS-led $620 billion sovereign wealth fund. According to Arab news, the “immersive experiential” structure will house 2 million square metres of floor space. The project would also become the tallest structure in the city.&nbsp; 
 
 
<img alt="(Photo: Handout/New Murabba)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c523055-3260-44af-b95f-f5d77e8ff977" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-02-22T021250.422_0.png" />(Photo: Handout/New Murabba)

The cube-like structure which developers say will be the world’s largest modern downtown and “the new face of Riyadh”, will also be the first immersive destination which would be created by the latest digital and virtual holographic technology. The project also comes two years after the Saudi Crown Prince announced his $500 billion futuristic NEOM city in the northwest of the country.

About The Mukaab

The New Murabba project will be located in the capital city at the intersection of King Salman and King Khalid roads in the northwest of Riyadh, as per Arab news. It will also offer unique living, working and entertainment experiences within a 15-minute walking radius and will have its own internal transport system, said the PIF. It added that it will also be just a 20-minute drive from the country’s King Khalid International Airport.&nbsp; 
 
“The world’s first immersive, experiential destination. Where hospitality, retail and leisure reach new levels, all in breathtaking, ever-changing environments. A gateway to another world”, said the New Murabba website. The total project will span over 25 million square metres of floor area which will be home to more than 104,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, and more than 80 entertainment and cultural venues.&nbsp; 
 
<img alt="(Photo: Handout/New Murabba)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8a45ed3-263e-4276-8fe0-2e5427dcca82" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202023-02-21T224756.425_0.png" />(Photo: Handout/New Murabba)

In a statement, the PIF also said that the project will be centred around the concept of sustainability and will include features like green spaces and paths for walking and cycling in a bid to promote healthy, active lifestyles and community activities. The Mukaab will also comprise an iconic museum, a technology and design university, and a multipurpose immersive theatre.&nbsp;

Additionally, 980,000 square metres will be dedicated to retail space, 1.4 million square metres as office space, and another 1.8 million square metres of community facility space along with a technology and design-focused university. The project which is expected to finish by 2030 will contribute SAR180 billion ($47 billion) to non-oil GDP and create 334,000 direct and indirect jobs in the next seven years, said the PIF.&nbsp;

The promotional video by the New Murabba looks like something out of a sci-fi movie featuring space pods, dragons, and even floating rocks. The structure&nbsp;will add over 19 square kilometres to the capital city and will help make Riyadh, “one of the Top 10 most livable cities in the world”. It will also encompass a tower atop a spiral base where the aforementioned spaces and activities will be housed.&nbsp;

Discussions surrounding the project

In an interview with Arab news, Yasser Elsheshtawy, adjunct professor of architecture at Columbia University and non-resident fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, said, “There is a tendency among Western and Arab observers to dismiss such projects out of hand, describing them as acts of folly, and the outcome of people with too much money”.&nbsp;

He added, “But if we look at it objectively, it is much more than that. Having been involved with one of the teams that were invited to compete for the project, I can attest that there is serious thinking involved in such schemes.” Furthermore, he believes that The Mukaab&nbsp;will provide Riyadh with a “unique icon” which will make the city synonymous with it, like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera House.&nbsp; 
 
The ambitious project has certainly garnered a lot of attention, and&nbsp;analysts say that Saudi Arabia is announcing these projects in a bid to catch up with its neighbouring Dubai and the capital city of Qatar Doha. The kingdom has witnessed years of bad press for its alleged human rights abuses and seems like it is working to shed its perceived image as an oil-rich and conservative state.&nbsp;

Speaking to CNN, Andreas Krieg, a research fellow at the King’s College London Institute of Middle Eastern Studies said, “Back in the day, you would have negative discussions about Saudi Arabia affiliated to human rights abuses…But now they’re trying to push new narratives of being a country of development and one that can build futuristic cities.”&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has also “spent decades not attracting foreign, non-Muslim visitors,” said Simon Henderson from The Washington Institute, as per CNN. Furthermore, while the kingdom has also announced more than 10 such mega projects over the past couple of years reports suggest that&nbsp;the work on them has been slow, which has led many to speculate it might&nbsp;not finish anytime soon.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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Earlier this week, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) announced the plans for a new ambitious development project to build in the country’s capital Riyadh, named, “The Mukaab” which means a cube in Arabic.

Earlier this week, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) announced the plans for a new ambitious development project to build in the country’s capital Riyadh, named, “The Mukaab” which means a cube in Arabic. According to the developers, the structure will become the largest inner-city building in the world. The skyscraper would be large enough to hold 20 Empire State Buildings and would house hundreds of thousands of residents. What we know so far Plans for the Mukaab or New Murabba downtown were announced on February 16 by MBS who is also the Chairman of the New Murabba Development Company (NMDC). The aforementioned company is a newly founded business venture by the Saudi Crown Prince and will manage the project. It aims to develop the world’s largest modern downtown in Riyadh, in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The skyscraper will be in the shape of a cube measuring 400 metres in height, 400 metres in width, and 400 metres in length. The design for the cube is said to be the region’s traditional Najdi architectural style. The Mukaab will be developed by Saudi Arabia’s NMDC using the Kingdom's Public Investment Fund (PIF) which is the MBS-led $620 billion sovereign wealth fund. According to Arab news, the “immersive experiential” structure will house 2 million square metres of floor space. The project would also become the tallest structure in the city. (Photo: Handout/New Murabba) The cube-like structure which developers say will be the world’s largest modern downtown and “the new face of Riyadh”, will also be the first immersive destination which would be created by the latest digital and virtual holographic technology. The project also comes two years after the Saudi Crown Prince announced his $500 billion futuristic NEOM city in the northwest of the country. About The Mukaab The New Murabba project will be located in the capital city at the intersection of King Salman and King Khalid roads in the northwest of Riyadh, as per Arab news. It will also offer unique living, working and entertainment experiences within a 15-minute walking radius and will have its own internal transport system, said the PIF. It added that it will also be just a 20-minute drive from the country’s King Khalid International Airport. “The world’s first immersive, experiential destination. Where hospitality, retail and leisure reach new levels, all in breathtaking, ever-changing environments. A gateway to another world”, said the New Murabba website. The total project will span over 25 million square metres of floor area which will be home to more than 104,000 residential units, 9,000 hotel rooms, and more than 80 entertainment and cultural venues. (Photo: Handout/New Murabba) In a statement, the PIF also said that the project will be centred around the concept of sustainability and will include features like green spaces and paths for walking and cycling in a bid to promote healthy, active lifestyles and community activities. The Mukaab will also comprise an iconic museum, a technology and design university, and a multipurpose immersive theatre. Additionally, 980,000 square metres will be dedicated to retail space, 1.4 million square metres as office space, and another 1.8 million square metres of community facility space along with a technology and design-focused university. The project which is expected to finish by 2030 will contribute SAR180 billion ($47 billion) to non-oil GDP and create 334,000 direct and indirect jobs in the next seven years, said the PIF. The promotional video by the New Murabba looks like something out of a sci-fi movie featuring space pods, dragons, and even floating rocks. The structure will add over 19 square kilometres to the capital city and will help make Riyadh, “one of the Top 10 most livable cities in the world”. It will also encompass a tower atop a spiral base where the aforementioned spaces and activities will be housed. Discussions surrounding the project In an interview with Arab news, Yasser Elsheshtawy, adjunct professor of architecture at Columbia University and non-resident fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington, said, “There is a tendency among Western and Arab observers to dismiss such projects out of hand, describing them as acts of folly, and the outcome of people with too much money”. He added, “But if we look at it objectively, it is much more than that. Having been involved with one of the teams that were invited to compete for the project, I can attest that there is serious thinking involved in such schemes.” Furthermore, he believes that The Mukaab will provide Riyadh with a “unique icon” which will make the city synonymous with it, like the Eiffel Tower or the Sydney Opera House. The ambitious project has certainly garnered a lot of attention, and analysts say that Saudi Arabia is announcing these projects in a bid to catch up with its neighbouring Dubai and the capital city of Qatar Doha. The kingdom has witnessed years of bad press for its alleged human rights abuses and seems like it is working to shed its perceived image as an oil-rich and conservative state. Speaking to CNN, Andreas Krieg, a research fellow at the King’s College London Institute of Middle Eastern Studies said, “Back in the day, you would have negative discussions about Saudi Arabia affiliated to human rights abuses…But now they’re trying to push new narratives of being a country of development and one that can build futuristic cities.” Saudi Arabia has also “spent decades not attracting foreign, non-Muslim visitors,” said Simon Henderson from The Washington Institute, as per CNN. Furthermore, while the kingdom has also announced more than 10 such mega projects over the past couple of years reports suggest that the work on them has been slow, which has led many to speculate it might not finish anytime soon. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | ‘The Mukaab’: Saudi Arabia’s cube-shaped skyscraper big enough to fit 20 Empire State Buildings

Jim Biden, the younger brother of U.S. President Joe Biden, is under scrutiny for negotiating a $140 million settlement on behalf of an American company with the Saudi Arabian government. The settlement happed back in 2012. Molly Gambhir explains.

Gravitas: Biden's brother's secret Saudi deal

English Premier League (EPL) giant and probably one of the most celebrated football clubs around the world, Manchester United, is attracting a lot of eyes ever since its owners made it public that they were looking for strategic alternatives for the development of the club. Since then, multiple groups have shown interest in the club for ownership. Many groups from&nbsp; Middle East countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia are particularly interested in the club. According to ESPN, multiple consortiums of investors from the Middle East are expected to confirm their interest by submitting proof of fund for potential ownership, partial or complete, of the Red Devils.

Among the interesting parties are a consortium led by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund —&nbsp;Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), a bid by private investors backed by QIA, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has also encouraged private investors of the country. Apart from that, US-based asset manager Oaktree Capital and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliff, CEO of chemical company INEOS have also shown interest in buying Manchester United.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-and-manchester-united-play-out-a-thrilling-draw-as-juventus-held-in-europa-league-562902">Barcelona and Manchester United play out a thrilling draw as Juventus held in Europa League</a>

Glazer family, the current owners, who have owned the club since 2005, had in November last year shared their interest of seeking outside investment in the club. Merchant bank The Raine Group is handling the process on their behalf and has fielded the enquiries about full takeover and smaller investment.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-quits-bcci-following-sting-operation-twitter-folded-with-reactions-and-memes-562955">Chetan Sharma quits BCCI following sting operation: Twitter flooded with reactions and memes</a>

Talking about the price tag, the Glazers peg the club at $7.2 billion but the industry experts, as per ESPN, believe that the realistic price tag is around $5.4 billion. Meanwhile, Glazers are also split on the best way forward as both Joel and Avaram Glazer want to retain control, according to ESPN.&nbsp;

The National Football League's (NFL) Denver Broncos are the most expensive sports franchise in the world after being sold for $4.65 billion last year. In EPL, Man-U's rival Chelsea were sold for $3.01 billion in May last year.

&nbsp;

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English Premier League (EPL) giant and probably one of the most celebrated football clubs around the world, Manchester United, is attracting a lot of eyes ever since its owners made it public that they were looking for strategic alternatives for the development of the club.

English Premier League (EPL) giant and probably one of the most celebrated football clubs around the world, Manchester United, is attracting a lot of eyes ever since its owners made it public that they were looking for strategic alternatives for the development of the club. Since then, multiple groups have shown interest in the club for ownership. Many groups from Middle East countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia are particularly interested in the club. According to ESPN, multiple consortiums of investors from the Middle East are expected to confirm their interest by submitting proof of fund for potential ownership, partial or complete, of the Red Devils. Among the interesting parties are a consortium led by Qatar's sovereign wealth fund — Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), a bid by private investors backed by QIA, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has also encouraged private investors of the country. Apart from that, US-based asset manager Oaktree Capital and British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliff, CEO of chemical company INEOS have also shown interest in buying Manchester United. Also Read: Barcelona and Manchester United play out a thrilling draw as Juventus held in Europa League Glazer family, the current owners, who have owned the club since 2005, had in November last year shared their interest of seeking outside investment in the club. Merchant bank The Raine Group is handling the process on their behalf and has fielded the enquiries about full takeover and smaller investment. Read More: Chetan Sharma quits BCCI following sting operation: Twitter flooded with reactions and memes Talking about the price tag, the Glazers peg the club at $7.2 billion but the industry experts, as per ESPN, believe that the realistic price tag is around $5.4 billion. Meanwhile, Glazers are also split on the best way forward as both Joel and Avaram Glazer want to retain control, according to ESPN. The National Football League's (NFL) Denver Broncos are the most expensive sports franchise in the world after being sold for $4.65 billion last year. In EPL, Man-U's rival Chelsea were sold for $3.01 billion in May last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Multiple bidders from Middle East interested in buying Manchester United

Saudi Arabia will send its first-ever woman astronaut to the International Space Station this year, as per an official statement. Rayyana Barnawi will join fellow Saudi male astronaut Ali Al-Qarni on the space mission. Priyanka Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia to send its first woman astronaut to Space

For the first time, Saudi Arabia will be sending a&nbsp;female astronaut to the International Space Station during the second quarter of this year.&nbsp;As per the officials, a male astronaut will also be part of the project.

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لكل رحلة روّادها.. ولكل مهمّة أبطالها! 
السعودية <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%88_%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#نحو_الفضاء</a> 
 
Every journey has its pioneers, and every mission has its heroes! 
Saudi Arabia Towards Space. <a href="https://t.co/tXOQwrtB4m">pic.twitter.com/tXOQwrtB4m</a>
— الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) <a href="https://twitter.com/saudispace/status/1624745131235586049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The announcement was made on Sunday by the space agency where it said that Rayyanah Barnawahi and male astronaut Ali Al-Qarni will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission.&nbsp;

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تعرّف على رائدة الفضاء: ريّانة برناوي 
السعودية <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%88_%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#نحو_الفضاء</a> 
 
Meet the astronaut: Rayyanah Barnawi 
Saudi Arabia Towards Space <a href="https://t.co/o5qMWYJUwF">pic.twitter.com/o5qMWYJUwF</a>
— الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) <a href="https://twitter.com/saudispace/status/1624777551213211649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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تعرّف على رائد الفضاء: علي القرني 
السعودية <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D9%86%D8%AD%D9%88_%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%81%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#نحو_الفضاء</a> 
 
Meet the astronaut: Ali AlQarni 
Saudi Arabia Towards Space <a href="https://t.co/95G2CcVVzv">pic.twitter.com/95G2CcVVzv</a>
— الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) <a href="https://twitter.com/saudispace/status/1624777896261713922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The agency said that this initiative aims to empower national capabilities in human spaceflight geared towards serving humanity and benefiting from the upcoming opportunities offered by the space industry and will also be&nbsp;contributing to scientific research in many aspects such as health, sustainability and space technology.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-space-agency-reports-unexplained-pressure-glitch-on-cargo-ship-docked-to-iss-561182">Russian agency reports pressure glitch on spacecraft docked to ISS, says crew safe</a>

The spaceflight will be launched from the US to the International Space Station.&nbsp;

In addition to this, the Saudi&nbsp;Human Spaceflight Programme will also include the training of two more astronauts Mariam Fardous and Ali Al-Ghamdi on all mission requirements.&nbsp;

Mohammed Al-Tamini, the CEO of the Saudi Space agency expressed his gratitude toward the project.&nbsp;

Through this programme, the country seeks to activate its scientific research that will positively reflect on the future of the space industry and overall.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spacex-test-fires-engines-of-most-powerful-rocket-ever-built-560476">SpaceX test-fires engines of most powerful rocket ever built</a>

The Saudi Space Commission also stated that this programme comes in cooperation with a group of entities, led by the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Sport, The General Authority of Civil Aviation and King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in addition to its international partners such as Axiom Space.&nbsp;

The space agency has previously launched the Human Spaceflight Programme. This flight project is an integral milestone of a comprehensive programme that aims to train and qualify experienced individuals to take human spaceflights.&nbsp;

For the first time, Saudi Arabia will be sending a female astronaut to the International Space Station during the second quarter of this year. As per the officials, a male astronaut will also be part of the project.

For the first time, Saudi Arabia will be sending a female astronaut to the International Space Station during the second quarter of this year. As per the officials, a male astronaut will also be part of the project. لكل رحلة روّادها.. ولكل مهمّة أبطالها! السعودية #نحو_الفضاء Every journey has its pioneers, and every mission has its heroes! Saudi Arabia Towards Space. pic.twitter.com/tXOQwrtB4m — الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) February 12, 2023 × The announcement was made on Sunday by the space agency where it said that Rayyanah Barnawahi and male astronaut Ali Al-Qarni will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission. تعرّف على رائدة الفضاء: ريّانة برناوي السعودية #نحو_الفضاء Meet the astronaut: Rayyanah Barnawi Saudi Arabia Towards Space pic.twitter.com/o5qMWYJUwF — الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) February 12, 2023 × تعرّف على رائد الفضاء: علي القرني السعودية #نحو_الفضاء Meet the astronaut: Ali AlQarni Saudi Arabia Towards Space pic.twitter.com/95G2CcVVzv — الهيئة السعودية للفضاء (@saudispace) February 12, 2023 × The agency said that this initiative aims to empower national capabilities in human spaceflight geared towards serving humanity and benefiting from the upcoming opportunities offered by the space industry and will also be contributing to scientific research in many aspects such as health, sustainability and space technology. Also read | Russian agency reports pressure glitch on spacecraft docked to ISS, says crew safe The spaceflight will be launched from the US to the International Space Station. In addition to this, the Saudi Human Spaceflight Programme will also include the training of two more astronauts Mariam Fardous and Ali Al-Ghamdi on all mission requirements. Mohammed Al-Tamini, the CEO of the Saudi Space agency expressed his gratitude toward the project. Through this programme, the country seeks to activate its scientific research that will positively reflect on the future of the space industry and overall. Also read | SpaceX test-fires engines of most powerful rocket ever built The Saudi Space Commission also stated that this programme comes in cooperation with a group of entities, led by the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Sport, The General Authority of Civil Aviation and King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in addition to its international partners such as Axiom Space. The space agency has previously launched the Human Spaceflight Programme. This flight project is an integral milestone of a comprehensive programme that aims to train and qualify experienced individuals to take human spaceflights.

'A step towards space': Saudi Arabia to send its first female astronaut to International Space Station in 2023

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia bagged the top spot among Gulf countries that offered the most number&nbsp;of jobs to Indians in the year 2022. Saudi Arabia has the second-highest number of Indian expats after the United Arab Emirates. In the year 2022, Saudi Arabia provided 178,630 jobs to Indians. There was a five-fold increase in the figure as in 2021 and 2020 the numbers were 32,845 and 44,316 respectively.

The second country on this list is Kuwait which has seen a seven-fold increase compared to the year 2021. Bahrain was at last place with just 10,232 job offers.&nbsp;

The UAE, which hosted the highest number of Indians in 2018, continues to see a dip in recruitment. In 2018, UAE recruited 57,613 people while in 2019 it provided jobs to 45,712 Indians.

According to numbers with India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), nearly 50 per cent of India's migrant population works in Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries. An estimated 70 per cent of the Indian population in this region comprises of semi-skilled and unskilled workers. 20 to 23 per cent of Indian professionals are in 'white-collar' jobs like doctors, engineers, architects, chartered accountants, bankers and more.

“It is expected to grow manifold in the next few years,” said Mohammed Ashif, whose firm&nbsp;Expertise Contracting Company Limited caters to demand for workers in various sectors "The majority of our employees are from India,” he was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia bagged the top spot among Gulf countries that offered the most number of jobs to Indians in the year 2022. Saudi Arabia has the second-highest number of Indian expats after the United Arab Emirates.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia bagged the top spot among Gulf countries that offered the most number of jobs to Indians in the year 2022. Saudi Arabia has the second-highest number of Indian expats after the United Arab Emirates. In the year 2022, Saudi Arabia provided 178,630 jobs to Indians. There was a five-fold increase in the figure as in 2021 and 2020 the numbers were 32,845 and 44,316 respectively. The second country on this list is Kuwait which has seen a seven-fold increase compared to the year 2021. Bahrain was at last place with just 10,232 job offers. The UAE, which hosted the highest number of Indians in 2018, continues to see a dip in recruitment. In 2018, UAE recruited 57,613 people while in 2019 it provided jobs to 45,712 Indians. According to numbers with India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), nearly 50 per cent of India's migrant population works in Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries. An estimated 70 per cent of the Indian population in this region comprises of semi-skilled and unskilled workers. 20 to 23 per cent of Indian professionals are in 'white-collar' jobs like doctors, engineers, architects, chartered accountants, bankers and more. “It is expected to grow manifold in the next few years,” said Mohammed Ashif, whose firm Expertise Contracting Company Limited caters to demand for workers in various sectors "The majority of our employees are from India,” he was quoted as saying by the Times of India. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Saudi Arabia tops list of Gulf countries giving employment to Indians in 2022

Saudi Arabia has witnessed a five-fold year-on-year increase in the number of Indian workers taking up a job in the Gulf monarchy in 2022, as per statistics by the Indian government. More Indian expats moved to Saudi Arabia for a job than any other west Asian nation in 2022.

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia re-gains lost popularity among Indian workers

Cristiano Ronaldo silenced the critics on Thursday when he scored four times in Al Nassr's 4-0 win over Al Wehda in the Saudi Professional League match. In the process, Ronaldo went past 500 club goals, whilst bagging his 61st career hat trick.

Cristiano Ronaldo silenced the critics on Thursday when he scored four times in Al Nassr's 4-0 win over Al Wehda in the Saudi Professional League match. In the process, Ronaldo went past 500 club goals, whilst bagging his 61st career hat trick. Ronaldo opened the scoring for his side in the 21st minute via a sweet left-footed strike. He pounced upon the opposition's mistake just before halftime and doubled the lead courtesy of a sizzling right-foot finish. He completed the hattrick eight minutes into the second half through a penalty and celebrated in his customary style. The fourth goal arrived just before the hour mark and it caped an incredible evening for the Portuguese. Great feeling to have scored 4 goals and reaching my 500th league goal in a very solid win by the team!💪🏼 ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/o2ZfV6fYBu — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) February 9, 2023 × Read more: Explained: Why Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Riyadh-based club Al Nassr? Everything you need to know Ronaldo finished the night with 503 goals which have come across five clubs. The Portuguese scored 311 goals for Real Madrid, 103 for Manchester United in two different spells, 81 for Italian club Juventus and three and five for Sporting and Al-Nassr respectively. Cristiano Ronaldo's four goals for Al Nassr tonight 🔥pic.twitter.com/dK0hyC6ULH — Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) February 9, 2023 × Ronaldo made his highly anticipated debut in a friendly against Paris Saint-Germain with Messi, Neymar and Mbappe sharing the pitch with him. Ronaldo scored twice in the match, hyping up the expectations that he was going to tear up the Saudi Arabia Pro League. However, he had a slight lean patch afterward as he failed to score in subsequent games as his team crashed out of the Super Cup. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner bagged his first league goal against Al Fatel last week. His goal helped Al Nassr salvage a draw and retain the top position on the points table. WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo finally finds the back of the net, scores his maiden goal for Al Nassr Ronaldo came to the gulf country after having a bitter fallout with Manchester United. He signed for Al-Nassr for a world record $214.04 million fee for two years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Cristiano Ronaldo bags four to take his club career goal tally past 500

Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News. Additionally, reports also suggest that one of the major reasons for Saudi Arabia to do so is the Taliban’s ban on women in workplaces across Afghanistan. While another report says it is security concerns which contributed to their decision to leave.&nbsp;

A report by CNN-News18 citing diplomatic sources said that it was the ban on women in workspaces which forced Saudi Arabia to shut its embassy in Kabul as some female employees were working there. However, a spokesperson for the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid, on Monday (February 5) asserted that some Saudi diplomats left for “a kind of training” and will return.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a report by Reuters citing a diplomatic source and two others familiar with the matter said that Saudi Arabia's diplomats had left by air and relocated to Pakistan, last week amid warnings of heightened risks of attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul. Since the Taliban took over in 2021 only a few countries have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan including, China, Russia, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, as per media reports.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Czech government also announced that it has closed its embassy in Kabul, while other countries run their offices from Pakistan and Qatar. It was also not immediately made clear how many Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan or how long they were meant to be outside Kabul. This comes a year after two Russian embassy staff members and four others were killed in a suicide bombing at the consulate’s front gate, the attack was later claimed by the Islamic State militant group.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News.

Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have shut their embassies in Afghanistan which is seen as a considerable setback for Kabul’s diplomatic relations with other nations, reported ANI citing Tolo News. Additionally, reports also suggest that one of the major reasons for Saudi Arabia to do so is the Taliban’s ban on women in workplaces across Afghanistan. While another report says it is security concerns which contributed to their decision to leave. A report by CNN-News18 citing diplomatic sources said that it was the ban on women in workspaces which forced Saudi Arabia to shut its embassy in Kabul as some female employees were working there. However, a spokesperson for the Taliban administration, Zabiullah Mujahid, on Monday (February 5) asserted that some Saudi diplomats left for “a kind of training” and will return. Meanwhile, a report by Reuters citing a diplomatic source and two others familiar with the matter said that Saudi Arabia's diplomats had left by air and relocated to Pakistan, last week amid warnings of heightened risks of attacks in the Afghan capital Kabul. Since the Taliban took over in 2021 only a few countries have maintained a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan including, China, Russia, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Iran, as per media reports. Earlier, the Czech government also announced that it has closed its embassy in Kabul, while other countries run their offices from Pakistan and Qatar. It was also not immediately made clear how many Saudi diplomats have left Afghanistan or how long they were meant to be outside Kabul. This comes a year after two Russian embassy staff members and four others were killed in a suicide bombing at the consulate’s front gate, the attack was later claimed by the Islamic State militant group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Arabia shuts embassy in Kabul, diplomats may relocate to Pakistani capital: Reports

The number of executions in Saudi Arabia has doubled under the de facto leader Mohammed bin Salman's reign. According to a report, the last six years have been the bloodiest period in the kingdom's modern history. Despite the widespread reforms and depiction of personal liberties, the rates of capital punishment are historically high. Activists groups say that the crown prince's political enemies and his no patience for friction have led to a total crackdown.&nbsp;

Furthermore, the new data shows that Prince Mohammed did not keep his promise to stunt the number of executions. There have been more state-sanctioned deaths in the last six years than any other year in recent history.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-people-observe-silent-protest-as-military-rulers-extend-emergency-558146">Myanmar: People observe 'silent protest' as military rulers extend emergency</a>

According to the report, the average number of executions that occurred between 2015 to 2022 was 129. Last year, 90 people received a death sentence for a crime that was non-violent. On March 12, 2022, the Saudi leadership put 81 men to death. Activists believe the execution was a message to the crown prince's opposition, including the tribal groups in Saudi Arabia's eastern provinces.&nbsp;

The European Saudi Organisation for Human Rights and Reprieve, in their report, said, "Saudi Arabia’s application of the death penalty is riddled with discrimination and injustice and the Saudi regime has been lying to the international community about its use."

WATCH |&nbsp;Days After Peshawar Bombing: Protests &amp; Political blame game

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"The death penalty is routinely used for non-lethal offences and to silence dissidents and protesters, despite promises by the crown prince that executions would only be used for murder. Fair trial violations and torture are endemic in death penalty cases, including torture of child defendants," it added.&nbsp;

Prince Mohammed has taken intolerance to a new level, the report says, as his business and political rivals are now subject to mass detentions and financial shakedowns. There's little room for dissent under his absolute monarchy.&nbsp;

The death penalty has become one of the most visceral tools in the new regime of Saudi Arabia, the report concluded.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The number of executions in Saudi Arabia has doubled under the de facto leader Mohammed bin Salman's reign. According to a report, the last six years have been the bloodiest period in the kingdom's modern history.

The number of executions in Saudi Arabia has doubled under the de facto leader Mohammed bin Salman's reign. According to a report, the last six years have been the bloodiest period in the kingdom's modern history. Despite the widespread reforms and depiction of personal liberties, the rates of capital punishment are historically high. Activists groups say that the crown prince's political enemies and his no patience for friction have led to a total crackdown. Furthermore, the new data shows that Prince Mohammed did not keep his promise to stunt the number of executions. There have been more state-sanctioned deaths in the last six years than any other year in recent history. ALSO READ | Myanmar: People observe 'silent protest' as military rulers extend emergency According to the report, the average number of executions that occurred between 2015 to 2022 was 129. Last year, 90 people received a death sentence for a crime that was non-violent. On March 12, 2022, the Saudi leadership put 81 men to death. Activists believe the execution was a message to the crown prince's opposition, including the tribal groups in Saudi Arabia's eastern provinces. The European Saudi Organisation for Human Rights and Reprieve, in their report, said, "Saudi Arabia’s application of the death penalty is riddled with discrimination and injustice and the Saudi regime has been lying to the international community about its use." WATCH | Days After Peshawar Bombing: Protests & Political blame game "The death penalty is routinely used for non-lethal offences and to silence dissidents and protesters, despite promises by the crown prince that executions would only be used for murder. Fair trial violations and torture are endemic in death penalty cases, including torture of child defendants," it added. Prince Mohammed has taken intolerance to a new level, the report says, as his business and political rivals are now subject to mass detentions and financial shakedowns. There's little room for dissent under his absolute monarchy. The death penalty has become one of the most visceral tools in the new regime of Saudi Arabia, the report concluded. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Saudi Arabia: Execution rates almost doubles under Mohammed bin Salman's reign, says report

It's barely been a month since Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. While many believe that Al Nassr is the last pit stop in Ronaldo's storied career, his current coach Rudi Garcia believes otherwise.

It's barely been a month since Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo arrived at the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. While many believe that Al Nassr is the last pit stop in Ronaldo's storied career, his current coach Rudi Garcia believes otherwise. Speaking to reporters, the former AS Roma manager said, “Cristiano Ronaldo is a positive addition, as he helps to disperse defenders. He is one of the best players in the world." "He will not finish his career at Al-Nassr, he will return to Europe.” However, Garcia's claims contradict Ronaldo's statement that he made after signing up for Al Nassr. During his unveiling, Ronaldo said his work in Europe was done and that he came to Saudi Arabia, despite having several offers from European and American clubs. "I am so proud at making this big decision in my life and my career. My work in Europe is done. I played for all the most important clubs,” "Nobody knows but I can say now that I had many opportunities in Europe, many clubs in Brazil, in Australia, in the US even in Portugal, many clubs tried to sign me," said Ronaldo. WATCH | Al-Nassr confirm the signing of Cristiano Ronaldo on a free transfer Ronaldo made his highly anticipated debut in a friendly against Paris Saint-Germain with Messi, Neymar and Mbappe sharing the pitch with him. Ronaldo scored twice in the match, hyping up the expectations that he was going to tear up the Saudi Arabia Pro League. However, since then, Ronaldo is yet to score or assist for his new side in the league. Despite Ronaldo playing, the team crashed out of the Super Cup as the five-time Ballon d'Or winner did not have a significant impact on the match. Read more: Cristiano Ronaldo remains goalless in league debut, Al-Nassr coach Rudi Garcia praises veteran post win Ronaldo came to the gulf country after having a bitter fallout with Manchester United. The Portuguese did an interview with British TV personality Piers Morgan where he burnt all bridges with the club with whom he won his first Champions League title. After all the hullabaloo surrounding his future, Ronaldo signed for Al-Nassr for a world record $214.04 million fee for two years. Read more: Explained: Why Cristiano Ronaldo joined the Riyadh-based club Al Nassr? Everything you need to know (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Al Nassr coach makes sensational claims about Cristiano Ronaldo's return to European football

Saudi Arabia puts condition for further aid to Pakistan. Pakistan now stares at loan default. Watch further to know more.

WION Fineprint: Saudi Arabia puts condition for further aid to Pakistan

Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap. Amid this fight for women's empowerment, a piece of good news is coming out of Saudi Arabia as the country appointed &nbsp;Sara Al-Sayed as the deputy minister for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The announcement of the appointment came after a decision by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan.

Who is Sara Al Sayed?&nbsp;

The newly appointed Sara Al Sayed held the position of assistant deputy minister for international collaboration at the Saudi Ministry of Health. Two years ago, she took the post of director-general of international collaboration. Her 20-year career is painted rainbow with a range of experience in diverse fields such as managerial banking, an international collaboration for companies and government organizations in the US and Saudi Arabia and military contracting.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confronts-china-with-evidence-of-state-owned-companies-aiding-russia-in-ukraine-war-555363">US confronts China with evidence of state-owned companies aiding Russia in Ukraine war</a>

While in the Ministry of Health in April 2017, Al-Sayed managed collaborations such as G20 and the World Health Organization. Al-Sayed also worked to manage international media outreach and facilitated the availability of health data that highlighted the Kingdom’s achievements in healthcare globally. She also served as a regional director for Houston Methodist Global. Her work there comprised of delivering consultancy services in healthcare sectors for crucial institutions within Saudi Arabia, as per Arab News.&nbsp;

Al-Sayed work experience in the health sector is quite extensive. She also managed international collaboration with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital within the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University campus in Riyadh.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-jeff-bezos-selling-washington-post-to-buy-nfl-team-555329">Is Jeff Bezos selling Washington Post to buy NFL team?</a>

Sara Al Sayed education&nbsp;

Al-Sayed spent 15 years of her educational and career life in Washington. During this tenure, she assumed the position of contracting officer at the Armed Forces Office of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia for three years.

She also holds banking experience as served in various managerial positions within the banking industry in the US for over 12 years. With extensive experience in personal banking, portfolio management, audit, insurance, business and commercial banking, mortgage banking, and risk management, the newly appointed diplomat was also selected to lead acquisitions and mergers of various institutions.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-defends-planned-military-drills-with-russia-and-china-555357">South Africa defends planned military drills with Russia and China</a>

Al-Sayed completed her bachelor’s in science from George Mason University in Washington. She is also an undergraduate in physical therapy at King Saud University in Riyadh, as per Arab News.&nbsp;

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Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap.

Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap. Amid this fight for women's empowerment, a piece of good news is coming out of Saudi Arabia as the country appointed Sara Al-Sayed as the deputy minister for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The announcement of the appointment came after a decision by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Who is Sara Al Sayed? The newly appointed Sara Al Sayed held the position of assistant deputy minister for international collaboration at the Saudi Ministry of Health. Two years ago, she took the post of director-general of international collaboration. Her 20-year career is painted rainbow with a range of experience in diverse fields such as managerial banking, an international collaboration for companies and government organizations in the US and Saudi Arabia and military contracting. Also Read | US confronts China with evidence of state-owned companies aiding Russia in Ukraine war While in the Ministry of Health in April 2017, Al-Sayed managed collaborations such as G20 and the World Health Organization. Al-Sayed also worked to manage international media outreach and facilitated the availability of health data that highlighted the Kingdom’s achievements in healthcare globally. She also served as a regional director for Houston Methodist Global. Her work there comprised of delivering consultancy services in healthcare sectors for crucial institutions within Saudi Arabia, as per Arab News. Al-Sayed work experience in the health sector is quite extensive. She also managed international collaboration with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital within the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University campus in Riyadh. Also Read | Is Jeff Bezos selling Washington Post to buy NFL team? Sara Al Sayed education Al-Sayed spent 15 years of her educational and career life in Washington. During this tenure, she assumed the position of contracting officer at the Armed Forces Office of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia for three years. She also holds banking experience as served in various managerial positions within the banking industry in the US for over 12 years. With extensive experience in personal banking, portfolio management, audit, insurance, business and commercial banking, mortgage banking, and risk management, the newly appointed diplomat was also selected to lead acquisitions and mergers of various institutions. WATCH | South Africa defends planned military drills with Russia and China Al-Sayed completed her bachelor’s in science from George Mason University in Washington. She is also an undergraduate in physical therapy at King Saud University in Riyadh, as per Arab News. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Sara Al Sayed, Saudi Arabia's new deputy foreign minister for public diplomacy?

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