Iran and Saudi Arabia have agreed to re-establish relations after years of hostility. The absence of ties between the two countries threatened stability and security in the gulf and helped fuel conflicts in west Asia, from Yemen to Syria. The deal, brokered by china, was announced after days of previously undisclosed talks in Beijing between top officials from the two nations. As per a statement issued by Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China, Tehran, and Riyadh agreed to resume diplomatic relations and re-open embassies within two months. Saudi Arabia cut ties with Iran in 2016 when its embassy in Tehran was stormed during a dispute over Riyadh's execution of a Shi'ite Muslim cleric. The kingdom had also blamed Iran for missile and drone attacks on its oil facilities in 2019, as well as attacks on tankers in gulf waters. Iran had denied the charges. In the past, the Iran-aligned Houthi movement in Yemen has also allegedly carried out cross-border missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia.

Former Israel PM slams Saudi-Iran deal as U.S. welcomes efforts to de-escalate West Asia tensions

Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to the Riyadh-based club Al-Nassr. He has settled quite nicely in the squad and recently the Portuguese football icon participated with his teammates in celebrating the kingdom’s Founding Day, a major national event. In a video, Ronaldo is seen in a traditional Saudi attire,&nbsp;known as thawb as he held a sword and participated in the famous Saudi group dance Ardah.

Ronaldo even shared the video of the celebrations on his official Twitter handle. He captioned the post, "Happy founding day to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 
Was a special experience to participate in the celebration at&nbsp;@AlNassrFC!". Here's the viral clip:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Happy founding day to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 
Was a special experience to participate in the celebration at <a href="https://twitter.com/AlNassrFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlNassrFC</a> ! <a href="https://t.co/1SHbmHyuez">pic.twitter.com/1SHbmHyuez</a>
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1628447676109922307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hes-the-best-in-history-doors-are-always-open-for-him-at-barcelona-says-xavi-on-lionel-messi-565003">'He's the best in history, doors are always open for him at Barcelona,' says Xavi on Lionel Messi</a>

In 2022, Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz declared February 22&nbsp;as the kingdom’s Founding Day and declared it as an official holiday. It is to be noted that the day is a significant one for the countrymen as it&nbsp;commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727, by Imam Mohammed bin Saud.&nbsp;

Speaking about Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr, he shifted to the Riyadh-based club after his fallout with Manchester United owners and team management last year. He is with his new club&nbsp;until June 2025 after a historic deal made the Portugal captain the highest-paid footballer in the world. So far, he has featured in five games for Al-Nassr, scoring five goals so far including four in one outing.&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to the Riyadh-based club Al-Nassr. He has settled quite nicely in the squad and recently the Portuguese football icon participated with his teammates in celebrating the kingdom’s Founding Day, a major national event.

Cristiano Ronaldo has moved to the Riyadh-based club Al-Nassr. He has settled quite nicely in the squad and recently the Portuguese football icon participated with his teammates in celebrating the kingdom’s Founding Day, a major national event. In a video, Ronaldo is seen in a traditional Saudi attire, known as thawb as he held a sword and participated in the famous Saudi group dance Ardah. Ronaldo even shared the video of the celebrations on his official Twitter handle. He captioned the post, "Happy founding day to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 Was a special experience to participate in the celebration at @AlNassrFC!". Here's the viral clip: Happy founding day to Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦 Was a special experience to participate in the celebration at @AlNassrFC ! pic.twitter.com/1SHbmHyuez — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) February 22, 2023 × Also Read: 'He's the best in history, doors are always open for him at Barcelona,' says Xavi on Lionel Messi In 2022, Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz declared February 22 as the kingdom’s Founding Day and declared it as an official holiday. It is to be noted that the day is a significant one for the countrymen as it commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727, by Imam Mohammed bin Saud. Speaking about Ronaldo's move to Al-Nassr, he shifted to the Riyadh-based club after his fallout with Manchester United owners and team management last year. He is with his new club until June 2025 after a historic deal made the Portugal captain the highest-paid footballer in the world. So far, he has featured in five games for Al-Nassr, scoring five goals so far including four in one outing.

Al-Nassr striker Cristiano Ronaldo performs traditional Ardah dance on Saudi Founding Day - Watch Video

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in West Asia last week, where he held three crucial meetings with regional leaders. Did the three-day quick trip fulfill Washington's hopes? Ghadi Francis decodes the story on this week's The West Asia Post only on WION.

The West Asia Post: Blinken's crucial West Asia visit

UNESCO has inscribed a traditional connection between camels and the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula in its list of intangible cultural heritage.&nbsp;The UN cultural agency said that a skilled camel herder can use his voice to soothe the animal, make it kneel and change directions as they trudge together through the desert sands with a signal, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-the-purpose-of-dogs-tail-study-shows-it-does-not-help-in-manoeuvres-but-only-a-communication-tool-548935">Also read |&nbsp;Why does the dog wag its tail? It's only a communication tool, doesn't help in manoeuvres</a>

The cries of camel herder Hamad al-Marri have been recognised as a means of communication with his animals. The cries mean nothing to the untrained animals.

The main motive behind UNESCO listing the communication is to protect the "Alheda'a" and provide an opportunity for its development.&nbsp;

It said, "Herders train their camels to recognise the difference between right and left, to open their mouths when asked, and to kneel down to be ridden."

Known as the ‘ship of the deserts’, camels have been a mode of transportation for long in Saudi Arabia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-eco-friendly-tourism-sees-tourists-riding-camels-when-on-safari-477918">Also read |&nbsp;Kenya: Eco-friendly tourism sees tourists riding camels when on safari</a>

Jasser al-Harbash, CEO of the Saudi Arabia Heritage, said there have been rock carvings that painted camels, that tell the story of camels.&nbsp;

Marri, a civil servant who owns around 100 camels, said there is a special language between the camel and its owner. He added that a camel recognises its owner's voice and responds to it immediately, but if someone else calls it, it won't respond.&nbsp;

As per the world organisation, Alheda'a can be deployed for a range of tasks such as bringing together the scattered herd, making them kneel and soothing them as they drink water.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UNESCO has inscribed a traditional connection between camels and the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula in its list of intangible cultural heritage. The UN cultural agency said that a skilled camel herder can use his voice to soothe the animal, make it kneel and change directions as they trudge together through the desert sands with a signal, AFP reported.

UNESCO has inscribed a traditional connection between camels and the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula in its list of intangible cultural heritage. The UN cultural agency said that a skilled camel herder can use his voice to soothe the animal, make it kneel and change directions as they trudge together through the desert sands with a signal, AFP reported. Also read | Why does the dog wag its tail? It's only a communication tool, doesn't help in manoeuvres The cries of camel herder Hamad al-Marri have been recognised as a means of communication with his animals. The cries mean nothing to the untrained animals. The main motive behind UNESCO listing the communication is to protect the "Alheda'a" and provide an opportunity for its development. It said, "Herders train their camels to recognise the difference between right and left, to open their mouths when asked, and to kneel down to be ridden." Known as the ‘ship of the deserts’, camels have been a mode of transportation for long in Saudi Arabia. Also read | Kenya: Eco-friendly tourism sees tourists riding camels when on safari Jasser al-Harbash, CEO of the Saudi Arabia Heritage, said there have been rock carvings that painted camels, that tell the story of camels. Marri, a civil servant who owns around 100 camels, said there is a special language between the camel and its owner. He added that a camel recognises its owner's voice and responds to it immediately, but if someone else calls it, it won't respond. As per the world organisation, Alheda'a can be deployed for a range of tasks such as bringing together the scattered herd, making them kneel and soothing them as they drink water. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Alheda’a: Saudi herders use ‘special language’ for camel training

On The West Asia Post with Ghadi Francis: - Xi's Saudi visit: What does this mean for U.S? - Iran's morality police: Bone of contention - Protests over economic crisis rock Syria - Shireen Abu Akleh killing case reaches ICC Every Friday at 8.30 pm IST | 3 pm GMT

The West Asia Post | Xi heralds 'new era' in Arab ties | Iran: 'Brutal' clampdown on protesters

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Saudi Arabia for the long-awaited visit to its regional ally, where he is set to meet nearly 30 heads of state and business leaders in the capital city, Riyadh. Notably, the timing for this visit has been at the forefront of the discussions in the west, since it comes at a “delicate time” for the relations between Saudi Arabia’s strategic ally the United States, said analysts.&nbsp;

For this visit, the Saudis have rolled out the red carpet while Xi will be welcomed amid fanfare with several reports comparing it to the grand welcome former US President Donald Trump received, in contrast to the incumbent US President Joe Biden’s visit, earlier this year.&nbsp;

Notably, Biden’s visit to Jeddah was marked by an awkward fist-bump from an unsmiling Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s greeting him. Furthermore, the US president who had arrived in Saudi Arabia to seek reassurances over global oil prices left empty-handed after the kingdom had refused to lower prices as well as announced a limited increase in oil production.&nbsp; 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-set-to-visit-saudi-arabia-on-wednesday-540687">Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Riyadh on Wednesday, will meet Saudi and Arab leaders</a>

However, months later they also went on to announce that it is cutting down its oil production, which created a further rift in the ties between the two countries. OPEC+ slashed its output by two million barrels a day in a bid to “stabilise” prices despite Washington’s heavy campaigning against it.&nbsp;

Furthermore, media reports suggest that this visit will also include a China-Arab summit and a China-Gulf Cooperation Council conference, where the summit is set to witness at least 14 Arab heads of state and has also been described as a “milestone” in China-Arab relations, said a report by CNN citing a diplomatic source.&nbsp;

The bilateral summit will be chaired by Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and will also be attended by the kingdom's de facto ruler MBS, reported the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).&nbsp;

A report by Bloomberg citing two people briefed on the plans said that energy and infrastructure deals will be at the top of the agenda during Xi’s visit. This comes amid reports of the two countries planning to sign agreements worth at least $30 billion.&nbsp;

“Riyadh is working according to strategic calculations that it must accommodate Beijing, as it is now an indispensable economic partner,” said the head of Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group, Ayham Kamel to Reuters, in the context of the China-Arab summit.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/saudi-arabia-becomes-chinas-top-crude-oil-supplier-again-as-russian-imports-fall-464464">Saudi Arabia becomes China's top crude oil supplier again as Russian imports fall</a>

However, Kamel also noted that “MBS is certainly not pursuing this out of spite,” but also that there is a certain risk in expanding ties with China and which could potentially create a further rift in the US-Saudi relationship. Notably, Saudi Arabia’s relations with China have also deepened in the economic context including Beijing’s potentially investing in Riyadh’s state oil giant Saudi Aramco.

In 2021, the kingdom’s exports to China exceeded $50 billion which accounts for more than 18 per cent of Saudi Arabia’s total exports. However, this is not just limited to Saudi Arabia as more Gulf states are seemingly moving toward deepening ties with China and Russia and the war in Ukraine does not appear to affect their relations with Moscow.&nbsp;

&nbsp;A Saudi analyst familiar with its leadership’s thinking, Ali Shihabi, told CNN, that Saudi is not indifferent to the US and it continues to remain a key partner. He added, “But the Kingdom has learned the hard way that the US cannot be relied on consistently for support.” Therefore, the leadership a few years ago began to develop multiple key relations in an “increasingly multipolar world” which is irreversible.&nbsp;

This remark could be in reference to Washington’s lack of response when the Shia militia attacked Saudi Arabia’s main refinery. While the US’s security presence, rather the lack thereof amid growing threats from Iran and its armed Yemeni proxies in the region has left the Middle East nations bitter. On the other hand, Riyadh’s human rights record has emerged as an issue, particularly after the alleged assassination of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-joe-bidens-govt-grants-legal-immunity-to-mohammed-bin-salman-541000">US: Joe Biden's govt grants legal immunity to Mohammed bin Salman</a>

During his trip to Saudi Arabia, US president Biden had also vowed, “We will not walk away and leave a vacuum to be filled by China, Russia, or Iran.” However, an official document titled “Report on Sino-Arab Cooperation in a New Era”, outlining Beijing’s policies in the region was released ahead of Xi’s visit to the kingdom said, “China has always believed that there is no such thing as a ‘power vacuum’ in the Middle East and that the people of the Middle East are the masters of the future and destiny of the region.”&nbsp;

Furthermore, the report also highlighted that China’s strategic focus in the Middle East remains on trade and economic cooperation and that it “upheld justice” on the region's security issues. “That message will be very clear when this visit gets under way. The Chinese do not lecture and they don’t disrespect. They know how to do business,” said a senior Saudi official to the Guardian.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-president-xi-jinping-to-meet-saudi-arabias-crown-prince-540797">Chinese President XI Jinping to meet Saudi Arabia's Crown prince</a>

“The Americans on the other hand have wanted us to choose sides. We will not,” the official added. Meanwhile, the US appears to be unsettled by what it perceives as China and Saudi Arabia’s support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine due to Moscow selling Beijing its discounted oil amid Western sanctions.&nbsp;

In the Indian context, one of the long-term implications of Xi's visit to the kingdom could potentially be the Chinese infrastructure being built closer to India, as analysts say that although these are civil projects the worry is Beijing’s growing influence in regions in New Delhi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-expresses-concern-over-chinas-bri-lauds-ties-with-nepal-and-bangladesh-363263">Indian army chief expresses concern over China's BRI, lauds ties with Nepal and Bangladesh</a>

“Clearly they are coming closer and closer to India and that is extremely worrying given its adversarial, hostile relations with China,” said Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan, director for the Center for Security, Strategy and Technology at New Delhi’s Observer Research Foundation, to the Voice of America (VOA), last year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Saudi Arabia for the long-awaited visit to its regional ally, where he is set to meet nearly 30 heads of state and business leaders in the capital city, Riyadh.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Saudi Arabia for the long-awaited visit to its regional ally, where he is set to meet nearly 30 heads of state and business leaders in the capital city, Riyadh. Notably, the timing for this visit has been at the forefront of the discussions in the west, since it comes at a “delicate time” for the relations between Saudi Arabia’s strategic ally the United States, said analysts. For this visit, the Saudis have rolled out the red carpet while Xi will be welcomed amid fanfare with several reports comparing it to the grand welcome former US President Donald Trump received, in contrast to the incumbent US President Joe Biden’s visit, earlier this year. Notably, Biden’s visit to Jeddah was marked by an awkward fist-bump from an unsmiling Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s greeting him. Furthermore, the US president who had arrived in Saudi Arabia to seek reassurances over global oil prices left empty-handed after the kingdom had refused to lower prices as well as announced a limited increase in oil production. ALSO READ | Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Riyadh on Wednesday, will meet Saudi and Arab leaders However, months later they also went on to announce that it is cutting down its oil production, which created a further rift in the ties between the two countries. OPEC+ slashed its output by two million barrels a day in a bid to “stabilise” prices despite Washington’s heavy campaigning against it. Furthermore, media reports suggest that this visit will also include a China-Arab summit and a China-Gulf Cooperation Council conference, where the summit is set to witness at least 14 Arab heads of state and has also been described as a “milestone” in China-Arab relations, said a report by CNN citing a diplomatic source. The bilateral summit will be chaired by Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and will also be attended by the kingdom's de facto ruler MBS, reported the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA). A report by Bloomberg citing two people briefed on the plans said that energy and infrastructure deals will be at the top of the agenda during Xi’s visit. This comes amid reports of the two countries planning to sign agreements worth at least $30 billion. “Riyadh is working according to strategic calculations that it must accommodate Beijing, as it is now an indispensable economic partner,” said the head of Middle East and North Africa at Eurasia Group, Ayham Kamel to Reuters, in the context of the China-Arab summit. ALSO WATCH | Saudi Arabia becomes China's top crude oil supplier again as Russian imports fall However, Kamel also noted that “MBS is certainly not pursuing this out of spite,” but also that there is a certain risk in expanding ties with China and which could potentially create a further rift in the US-Saudi relationship. Notably, Saudi Arabia’s relations with China have also deepened in the economic context including Beijing’s potentially investing in Riyadh’s state oil giant Saudi Aramco. In 2021, the kingdom’s exports to China exceeded $50 billion which accounts for more than 18 per cent of Saudi Arabia’s total exports. However, this is not just limited to Saudi Arabia as more Gulf states are seemingly moving toward deepening ties with China and Russia and the war in Ukraine does not appear to affect their relations with Moscow. A Saudi analyst familiar with its leadership’s thinking, Ali Shihabi, told CNN, that Saudi is not indifferent to the US and it continues to remain a key partner. He added, “But the Kingdom has learned the hard way that the US cannot be relied on consistently for support.” Therefore, the leadership a few years ago began to develop multiple key relations in an “increasingly multipolar world” which is irreversible. This remark could be in reference to Washington’s lack of response when the Shia militia attacked Saudi Arabia’s main refinery. While the US’s security presence, rather the lack thereof amid growing threats from Iran and its armed Yemeni proxies in the region has left the Middle East nations bitter. On the other hand, Riyadh’s human rights record has emerged as an issue, particularly after the alleged assassination of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi. ALSO WATCH | US: Joe Biden's govt grants legal immunity to Mohammed bin Salman During his trip to Saudi Arabia, US president Biden had also vowed, “We will not walk away and leave a vacuum to be filled by China, Russia, or Iran.” However, an official document titled “Report on Sino-Arab Cooperation in a New Era”, outlining Beijing’s policies in the region was released ahead of Xi’s visit to the kingdom said, “China has always believed that there is no such thing as a ‘power vacuum’ in the Middle East and that the people of the Middle East are the masters of the future and destiny of the region.” Furthermore, the report also highlighted that China’s strategic focus in the Middle East remains on trade and economic cooperation and that it “upheld justice” on the region's security issues. “That message will be very clear when this visit gets under way. The Chinese do not lecture and they don’t disrespect. They know how to do business,” said a senior Saudi official to the Guardian. ALSO WATCH | Chinese President XI Jinping to meet Saudi Arabia's Crown prince “The Americans on the other hand have wanted us to choose sides. We will not,” the official added. Meanwhile, the US appears to be unsettled by what it perceives as China and Saudi Arabia’s support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine due to Moscow selling Beijing its discounted oil amid Western sanctions. In the Indian context, one of the long-term implications of Xi's visit to the kingdom could potentially be the Chinese infrastructure being built closer to India, as analysts say that although these are civil projects the worry is Beijing’s growing influence in regions in New Delhi. ALSO READ | Indian army chief expresses concern over China's BRI, lauds ties with Nepal and Bangladesh “Clearly they are coming closer and closer to India and that is extremely worrying given its adversarial, hostile relations with China,” said Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan, director for the Center for Security, Strategy and Technology at New Delhi’s Observer Research Foundation, to the Voice of America (VOA), last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: What does Xi Jinping’s visit to Saudi Arabia mean for its relations with the US?

Xi Jinping is attending a summit in Saudi Arabia. It's his first trip to the Kingdom since 2016. Should the U.S. be worried about the growing relations between the two nations? Watch this video to know more.

Trending on WION: What Xi Jinping’s visit to Saudi Arabia means for the U.S.?

The Capital Market Authority said on Thursday that Saudi Arabia's stock market regulator has given the go-ahead for Luberef, a base oil subsidiary of the world's largest oil company Aramco, to conduct an IPO.

Investors will be able to purchase 50.045 million shares, or 29.656% of the share capital, of Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company (Luberef), formerly known as Saudi Aramco Lubricating Oil Refining Co.&nbsp;

The Saudi investment bank Jadwa Investment controls 30% of Luberef, with Aramco owning 70% of it.

The region has emerged as a bright light in an overall down year for equities markets, riding high on robust oil prices and amid a flurry of state-led flotations in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.

According to statistics from Refinitiv, Gulf issuers have raised over $16 billion in IPOs this year, or almost half of the total proceeds from IPOs in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

The energy trading division of Aramco also intends to go public.

In order to wean the economy off of oil, develop new sectors, and generate employment, the kingdom's privatisation initiative is a pillar of its Vision 2030 economic strategy.

The biggest IPO ever was Saudi Aramco's record listing on Riyadh's Tadawul market in late 2019. The listing's profits were later increased to total $29.4 billion.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Capital Market Authority said on Thursday that Saudi Arabia's stock market regulator has given the go-ahead for Luberef, a base oil subsidiary of the world's largest oil company Aramco, to conduct an IPO.

The Capital Market Authority said on Thursday that Saudi Arabia's stock market regulator has given the go-ahead for Luberef, a base oil subsidiary of the world's largest oil company Aramco, to conduct an IPO. Investors will be able to purchase 50.045 million shares, or 29.656% of the share capital, of Saudi Aramco Base Oil Company (Luberef), formerly known as Saudi Aramco Lubricating Oil Refining Co. The Saudi investment bank Jadwa Investment controls 30% of Luberef, with Aramco owning 70% of it. The region has emerged as a bright light in an overall down year for equities markets, riding high on robust oil prices and amid a flurry of state-led flotations in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. According to statistics from Refinitiv, Gulf issuers have raised over $16 billion in IPOs this year, or almost half of the total proceeds from IPOs in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The energy trading division of Aramco also intends to go public. In order to wean the economy off of oil, develop new sectors, and generate employment, the kingdom's privatisation initiative is a pillar of its Vision 2030 economic strategy. The biggest IPO ever was Saudi Aramco's record listing on Riyadh's Tadawul market in late 2019. The listing's profits were later increased to total $29.4 billion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Saudi Aramco's Luberef gets regulator nod for initial public offering

As the government has been working&nbsp;to stabilise the faltering national economy, Pakistan has reportedly obtained an additional USD 13 billion in financial backing from its longtime allies China and Saudi Arabia. According to finance minister Ishaq Dar, Pakistan would get around $9 billion from China and $4 billion from Saudi Arabia as part of the new financial support, in addition to guarantees for approximately $20 billion in investments.&nbsp;

He claimed that the Chinese leadership made a commitment to renew USD 4 billion in sovereign loans, refinance USD 3.3 billion in commercial bank loans, and increase the currency swap by approximately USD 1.45 billion, from 30 billion yuan to 40 billion yuan, during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent trip to Beijing. The final figure came to USD 8.75 billion.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-imran-khan-injured-in-assassination-attempt-530873">As it happened: Imran Khan attack: Former PM injured in 'assassination' attempt</a>

"They promised the security of financial support,” Dar, who recently took over as the new finance minister of Pakistan from his predecessor Miftah Ismail, said and quoted Chinese President Xi Jinping as telling Sharif, “Don’t worry, we will not let you down.”

Also WATCH |&nbsp;Battle drawn between Pakistan's army, Imran Khan after attack on former Prime Minister

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/battle-drawn-between-pakistans-army-imran-khan-after-attack-on-former-prime-minister-531464/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The minister said roughly USD 200 million in commercial loans had already come in a few days prior.

For financial assistance, Pakistan has been corresponding with China and Saudi Arabia. As part of agreements for around USD 35 billion putouts against debt and obligations during the current fiscal year, this included rolling over maturing loans.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As the government has been working to stabilise the faltering national economy, Pakistan has reportedly obtained an additional USD 13 billion in financial backing from its longtime allies China and Saudi Arabia.

As the government has been working to stabilise the faltering national economy, Pakistan has reportedly obtained an additional USD 13 billion in financial backing from its longtime allies China and Saudi Arabia. According to finance minister Ishaq Dar, Pakistan would get around $9 billion from China and $4 billion from Saudi Arabia as part of the new financial support, in addition to guarantees for approximately $20 billion in investments. He claimed that the Chinese leadership made a commitment to renew USD 4 billion in sovereign loans, refinance USD 3.3 billion in commercial bank loans, and increase the currency swap by approximately USD 1.45 billion, from 30 billion yuan to 40 billion yuan, during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent trip to Beijing. The final figure came to USD 8.75 billion. Also read | As it happened: Imran Khan attack: Former PM injured in 'assassination' attempt "They promised the security of financial support,” Dar, who recently took over as the new finance minister of Pakistan from his predecessor Miftah Ismail, said and quoted Chinese President Xi Jinping as telling Sharif, “Don’t worry, we will not let you down.” Also WATCH | Battle drawn between Pakistan's army, Imran Khan after attack on former Prime Minister The minister said roughly USD 200 million in commercial loans had already come in a few days prior. For financial assistance, Pakistan has been corresponding with China and Saudi Arabia. As part of agreements for around USD 35 billion putouts against debt and obligations during the current fiscal year, this included rolling over maturing loans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Reports: Cash-crunched Pakistan to get an additional $13 billion from China and Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth said on Thursday it will make electric cars in the kingdom under a joint venture with Apple supplier Foxconn as part of a push to build new industries and lessen dependence on oil.

WION Business News | Saudi wealth fund, Foxconn to produce EVs

On Thursday, Pope Francis arrived for a four-day visit in Bahrain marking his first visit to the Gulf nation and only the second Pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula. He spoke at the Sakhir royal palace following his arrival, during which he called for an end to discrimination and human rights violations saying that it is essential that “fundamental human rights are not violated but promoted”.&nbsp;

During his visit, the Pope was welcomed by the country’s monarchy King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Bahrain which is led by the Sunni monarchy has been accused and criticised of overseeing human rights abuses by the Shia Muslim opposition and other rights groups. However, these accusations have been vehemently denied by authorities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/supplying-arms-to-ukraine-morally-acceptable-says-pope-516611">Supplying arms to Ukraine 'morally acceptable', says Pope</a>

The 85-year-old Pope during his address also referred to Bahrain's constitution and talked about the importance of putting commitments into practice so that religious freedom is completed and “not limited to freedom of worship”; people get equal dignity and opportunities which must be “concretely recognised for each group” and also so that no form of discrimination&nbsp;exists.&nbsp;

The Pope’s visit aims to bolster ties with the Islamic world and was followed after his landmark 2019 visit to Abu Dhabi, where he signed a document promoting the Catholic-Muslim fraternity with a leading Sunni cleric, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb. He will stay in Bahrain from November 3 to November 6 during which he will address the “Bahrain Forum for Dialogue: East and West for Human Coexistence” and meet with the Muslim Council of Elders.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pope-francis-says-he-needs-to-slow-down-travel-or-consider-retirement-502142">Pope Francis says he needs to slow down travel or consider retirement</a>

The Pope will also visit Catholic Churches in the country including the first one that was established in the Gulf region in 1939 and may also interact with the sizable Catholic community in Bahrain of at least 160,000 people in a country of 1.5 million. Reports suggest that many pilgrims will visit Bahrain on Saturday to attend the pope’s big Mass at the national stadium.&nbsp;

This visit has also drawn attention to the ongoing tensions between the Sunni-led government and Shia community as the latter led the pro-democracy movement in 2011 and nationwide protests demanding reform. However, the monarchy reportedly quashed the dissent with major crackdowns and help from the neighbouring UAE and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-spiral-of-violence-and-death-pope-urges-putin-521874">End 'spiral of violence and death', Pope urges Putin</a>

Since then the government has detained and imprisoned thousands of activists, protestors and even journalists after conducting mass trials. Francis’ remarks also come after human rights groups as well as relatives of Shia activists on death row have urged the Pope to speak out against capital punishment and oppression.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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On Thursday, Pope Francis arrived for a four-day visit in Bahrain marking his first visit to the Gulf nation and only the second Pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula.

On Thursday, Pope Francis arrived for a four-day visit in Bahrain marking his first visit to the Gulf nation and only the second Pope to visit the Arabian Peninsula. He spoke at the Sakhir royal palace following his arrival, during which he called for an end to discrimination and human rights violations saying that it is essential that “fundamental human rights are not violated but promoted”. During his visit, the Pope was welcomed by the country’s monarchy King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Bahrain which is led by the Sunni monarchy has been accused and criticised of overseeing human rights abuses by the Shia Muslim opposition and other rights groups. However, these accusations have been vehemently denied by authorities. ALSO READ: Supplying arms to Ukraine 'morally acceptable', says Pope The 85-year-old Pope during his address also referred to Bahrain's constitution and talked about the importance of putting commitments into practice so that religious freedom is completed and “not limited to freedom of worship”; people get equal dignity and opportunities which must be “concretely recognised for each group” and also so that no form of discrimination exists. The Pope’s visit aims to bolster ties with the Islamic world and was followed after his landmark 2019 visit to Abu Dhabi, where he signed a document promoting the Catholic-Muslim fraternity with a leading Sunni cleric, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb. He will stay in Bahrain from November 3 to November 6 during which he will address the “Bahrain Forum for Dialogue: East and West for Human Coexistence” and meet with the Muslim Council of Elders. ALSO WATCH: Pope Francis says he needs to slow down travel or consider retirement The Pope will also visit Catholic Churches in the country including the first one that was established in the Gulf region in 1939 and may also interact with the sizable Catholic community in Bahrain of at least 160,000 people in a country of 1.5 million. Reports suggest that many pilgrims will visit Bahrain on Saturday to attend the pope’s big Mass at the national stadium. This visit has also drawn attention to the ongoing tensions between the Sunni-led government and Shia community as the latter led the pro-democracy movement in 2011 and nationwide protests demanding reform. However, the monarchy reportedly quashed the dissent with major crackdowns and help from the neighbouring UAE and Saudi Arabia. ALSO READ: End 'spiral of violence and death', Pope urges Putin Since then the government has detained and imprisoned thousands of activists, protestors and even journalists after conducting mass trials. Francis’ remarks also come after human rights groups as well as relatives of Shia activists on death row have urged the Pope to speak out against capital punishment and oppression. (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.

Bahrain: Pope calls for an to end human rights violations and discrimination during visit

The Biden administration is reportedly planning to delay military aid to Saudi Arabia to punish the Gulf country for leading OPEC’s decision to cut oil production going against the request.

According to NBC, which has quoted two US officials, the administration might delay shipments of advanced Patriot MIM-104E guided ballistic missiles, among other arms and ammunition to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi has Patriot launch systems and needs missiles to defend against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. It had inked a deal with the US to purchase 300 missiles from it.

While some military officials have supported the retributive move, there are others who want to keep the oil production cuts a separate issue, said NBC report citing sources.

Apart from that, the other methods that might be employed by the US to punish the Saudi regime include excluding them from any upcoming military exercises and engagements like regional meetings or conferences, the officials said.

Though nothing has been decided yet, the Biden administration might drop the idea if the Saudis increase the production in the upcoming December OPEC meeting, the officials added.

The ties between the US and Saudi soured after the Gulf nation, apart from Russia, influenced the OPEC group to cut oil production by two million barrels a day, contrary to the requests by Joe Biden.

The move incensed the White House which has been struggling to control inflation and reduce gas prices, which have&nbsp;been at new highs since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February this year.

Earlier this month, Biden while speaking to CNN said, "There's going to be some consequences for what they've done with Russia."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Biden administration is reportedly planning to delay military aid to Saudi Arabia to punish the Gulf country for leading OPEC’s decision to cut oil production going against the request.

The Biden administration is reportedly planning to delay military aid to Saudi Arabia to punish the Gulf country for leading OPEC’s decision to cut oil production going against the request. According to NBC, which has quoted two US officials, the administration might delay shipments of advanced Patriot MIM-104E guided ballistic missiles, among other arms and ammunition to Saudi Arabia. Saudi has Patriot launch systems and needs missiles to defend against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. It had inked a deal with the US to purchase 300 missiles from it. While some military officials have supported the retributive move, there are others who want to keep the oil production cuts a separate issue, said NBC report citing sources. Apart from that, the other methods that might be employed by the US to punish the Saudi regime include excluding them from any upcoming military exercises and engagements like regional meetings or conferences, the officials said. Though nothing has been decided yet, the Biden administration might drop the idea if the Saudis increase the production in the upcoming December OPEC meeting, the officials added. The ties between the US and Saudi soured after the Gulf nation, apart from Russia, influenced the OPEC group to cut oil production by two million barrels a day, contrary to the requests by Joe Biden. The move incensed the White House which has been struggling to control inflation and reduce gas prices, which have been at new highs since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February this year. Earlier this month, Biden while speaking to CNN said, "There's going to be some consequences for what they've done with Russia." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Biden looking to ‘punish’ Saudi for oil output cut decision by delaying military supplies: Report

In an escalation of US, Saudi dispute over petroleum reserve, Saudi Arabia's energy Minister blasted the release of emergency oil stocks as an attempt to manipulate markets by the US.

WION Business News | Oil Spat: Saudi Arabia blasts US

United States and Saudi Arabia relations have taken a sharp dip due to the raging war in Ukraine, the conflict has also given rise to an oil supply crisis.

Russia-Ukraine war leads to major oil supply crunch; US blames Saudi for siding with Russia

Tensions between the United States and Saudi Arabia continues to mount. In the latest, US national security advisor Jake Sullivan stated that US President Joe Biden has no plans to meet MBS anytime soon!

US-Saudi takes a hit over oil production; Biden to act methodically in re-evaluating ties with MBS

In the latest, amid nationwide anti-government protests across Iran, a video of security forces molesting a woman while arresting her has enraged social media users&nbsp;all over the world. In Turkiye, an explosion inside a coal mine has&nbsp;killed at least 25 people&nbsp;while rescuers are&nbsp;trying to bring dozens of others trapped inside the mine to the surface. On the Russia-Ukraine war front, US and Saudi Arabia have announced monetary aid to Ukraine in response to Russia's latest missile strikes.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/footage-of-anti-riot-forces-in-iran-sexually-assaulting-female-protester-provokes-fury-on-social-media-525555">Footage of anti-riot forces in Iran sexually assaulting female protester provokes fury on social media</a>

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Fury has been expressed on social media in response to a video showing Iranian anti-riot police sexually assaulting a female protester as they attempted to arrest her.&nbsp;Both inside and outside of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyiv-region-hit-by-air-strikes-after-un-condemns-annexations-524965">Iran</a>, a number of videos showing the protest have gone viral. Near the most recent footage, which was captured on camera on Wednesday in Argentina Square in Tehran, officers are seen encircling a woman who is walking along a busy street.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkiye-mine-blast-kills-at-least-14-dozens-still-trapped-525546">Turkiye mine blast kills at least 25, dozens still trapped</a>

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A blast that tore through a mine in Turkiye has killed at least 25&nbsp;miners and has trapped dozens. The blast apparently took place because of methane gas. The trapped miners are hundreds of metres below ground. Twenty-eight people were saved many of which crawled out on their own. All of the survivors have various injuries due to what is becoming Turkiye's deadliest industrial accident in years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/tear-gas-was-the-main-reason-behind-the-indonesia-soccer-stampede-investigators-say-525558">Tear gas was the main reason behind the Indonesia soccer stampede, investigators say</a>

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Investigation into the deadly Indonesia soccer stampede by a fact-finding team has revealed that tear gas was the main cause of death in one of the world's worst stadium disasters, the country's security minister said on Friday. On October 1, &nbsp;over 130 people were killed at the Kanjuruhan stadium in East Java after a match. The team, which included government officials, soccer and security experts, has been investigating how the massive tragedy happened.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-saudi-arabia-announce-monetary-aid-to-ukraine-following-russias-missile-strikes-525561">US, Saudi Arabia announce monetary aid to Ukraine following Russia's missile strikes</a>

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The US pledged an additional $725 million in military aid for Ukraine on Friday as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensifies.&nbsp;Additionally,&nbsp;Saudi Arabia&nbsp;will give Ukraine $400 million in humanitarian relief, according to the Saudi state news agency SPA.&nbsp;

WATCH | Tech Talk | Social media and teen safety: Snapchat rolls out parental controls in India

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In the latest, amid nationwide anti-government protests across Iran, a video of security forces molesting a woman while arresting her has enraged social media users all over the world.

In the latest, amid nationwide anti-government protests across Iran, a video of security forces molesting a woman while arresting her has enraged social media users all over the world. In Turkiye, an explosion inside a coal mine has killed at least 25 people while rescuers are trying to bring dozens of others trapped inside the mine to the surface. On the Russia-Ukraine war front, US and Saudi Arabia have announced monetary aid to Ukraine in response to Russia's latest missile strikes. Footage of anti-riot forces in Iran sexually assaulting female protester provokes fury on social media Fury has been expressed on social media in response to a video showing Iranian anti-riot police sexually assaulting a female protester as they attempted to arrest her. Both inside and outside of Iran, a number of videos showing the protest have gone viral. Near the most recent footage, which was captured on camera on Wednesday in Argentina Square in Tehran, officers are seen encircling a woman who is walking along a busy street. Turkiye mine blast kills at least 25, dozens still trapped A blast that tore through a mine in Turkiye has killed at least 25 miners and has trapped dozens. The blast apparently took place because of methane gas. The trapped miners are hundreds of metres below ground. Twenty-eight people were saved many of which crawled out on their own. All of the survivors have various injuries due to what is becoming Turkiye's deadliest industrial accident in years. Tear gas was the main reason behind the Indonesia soccer stampede, investigators say Investigation into the deadly Indonesia soccer stampede by a fact-finding team has revealed that tear gas was the main cause of death in one of the world's worst stadium disasters, the country's security minister said on Friday. On October 1, over 130 people were killed at the Kanjuruhan stadium in East Java after a match. The team, which included government officials, soccer and security experts, has been investigating how the massive tragedy happened. US, Saudi Arabia announce monetary aid to Ukraine following Russia's missile strikes The US pledged an additional $725 million in military aid for Ukraine on Friday as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensifies. Additionally, Saudi Arabia will give Ukraine $400 million in humanitarian relief, according to the Saudi state news agency SPA. WATCH | Tech Talk | Social media and teen safety: Snapchat rolls out parental controls in India

Morning news brief: Major mine blast in Turkiye kills 25, outrage over Iran police sex assault video, & more

The US pledged an additional $725 million in military aid for Ukraine on Friday as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues following&nbsp;recent missile attacks by Russia on civilian targets in Ukraine.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "The help follows Russia's barbaric missile strikes on civilians throughout Ukraine, and the accumulating evidence of atrocities by Russia's soldiers."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-write-off-of-up-to-980-million-danone-plans-to-withdraw-from-its-businesses-in-russia-525520">Danone plans to withdraw from its businesses in Russia, write-off up to $980 million</a>

According to a statement from the US defence department, this military aid includes medical supplies, precision-guided artillery, and high-speed anti-radiation missiles (HARMs). The US air force's official website describes HARM as an air-to-surface tactical missile intended to locate and eliminate adversarial radar-equipped air defence systems. Added to the package is the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HUMVEE).

Following discussions at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-is-not-intimidated-by-russian-nuclear-threats-says-secretary-general-525223">NATO</a>, officials from Europe and other parts of the world promised more weapons and air defence systems to Ukraine. This declaration was made on Friday. 
 
The Pentagon intends to provide powerful NASAM anti-aircraft systems to Ukraine, and the UK announced last week that it will supply missiles for those systems. Additionally, Britain is sending 18 howitzer artillery pieces and hundreds of drones. The first of Germany's four promised IRIS-T air defence systems has been delivered.

Additionally,&nbsp;<a href="Washington claims Saudi Arabia pushed other OPEC+ nations for oil cut, says report">Saudi Arabia</a> will give Ukraine $400 million in humanitarian relief, according to the Saudi state news agency SPA. It also stated that on Friday, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the phone.&nbsp; 
 
The kingdom's willingness to continue mediation efforts and support everything that helps de-escalate was voiced by the crown prince, according to SPA.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US pledged an additional $725 million in military aid for Ukraine on Friday as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues following recent missile attacks by Russia on civilian targets in Ukraine.

The US pledged an additional $725 million in military aid for Ukraine on Friday as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues following recent missile attacks by Russia on civilian targets in Ukraine. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "The help follows Russia's barbaric missile strikes on civilians throughout Ukraine, and the accumulating evidence of atrocities by Russia's soldiers." Also read | Danone plans to withdraw from its businesses in Russia, write-off up to $980 million According to a statement from the US defence department, this military aid includes medical supplies, precision-guided artillery, and high-speed anti-radiation missiles (HARMs). The US air force's official website describes HARM as an air-to-surface tactical missile intended to locate and eliminate adversarial radar-equipped air defence systems. Added to the package is the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles (HUMVEE). Following discussions at NATO, officials from Europe and other parts of the world promised more weapons and air defence systems to Ukraine. This declaration was made on Friday. The Pentagon intends to provide powerful NASAM anti-aircraft systems to Ukraine, and the UK announced last week that it will supply missiles for those systems. Additionally, Britain is sending 18 howitzer artillery pieces and hundreds of drones. The first of Germany's four promised IRIS-T air defence systems has been delivered. Additionally, Saudi Arabia will give Ukraine $400 million in humanitarian relief, according to the Saudi state news agency SPA. It also stated that on Friday, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the phone. The kingdom's willingness to continue mediation efforts and support everything that helps de-escalate was voiced by the crown prince, according to SPA. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US announces $725mn military assistance to Ukraine, Saudi Arabia to provide $400mn in humanitarian aid

The relationship between United States and Saudi Arabia remains strained. Both the countries have taken exit over OPEC Plus's last week's decision to cut oil production.

US-Saudi Relations: Washington accuses Riyadh of boosting Russian interests

U.S. Democrats are furious after Saudi Arabia decided to reduce oil output last week. A growing number of senators are calling for an end to U.S. weapon supplies to Riyadh. What is it that's got Democrats up in arms? Priyanka Sharma tells you about the latest developments

WION Fineprint | U.S. Senator calls for the end of arms sales to Saudi Arabia

Arab countries have demanded Netflix remove content deemed offensive to "Islamic and societal values" in the region, apparently targeting programs that show people who are gay and lesbian.

The Gulf Cooperation Council issued a joint statement on Tuesday saying asking to comply with their norms or risk facing legal action and even a possible ban.

These Gulf countries are Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Apart from that, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates each published their statements separately decrying Netflix for showing content related to same-sex relationships on its streaming platform.

According to AP new agency, Saudi state television also aired a video of an interview it conducted with a woman identified as a “behavioural consultant” who termed Netflix as the “official sponsor of homosexuality.”

“If Netflix continued to broadcast the content then necessary legal measures will be taken,” the Riyadh-based General Commission for Audiovisual Media said in a stamen without elaborating further.

The UAE, too, came out with a similar worded statement regarding Netflix saying that would keep a close eye on what the platform broadcasts in coming days and "assess its commitment to broadcasting controls" in the country.

Many Muslim-majority countries have criminalised same-sex relationships and often banned films and shows which feature such relationships. Some countries even maintain the death penalty.

Earlier this year, UAE and other Muslim states banned Walt Disney-Pixar's animated feature film "Lightyear" from screening in cinemas because it showcases characters in a same-sex relationship.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Arab countries have demanded Netflix remove content deemed offensive to "Islamic and societal values" in the region, apparently targeting programs that show people who are gay and lesbian.

Arab countries have demanded Netflix remove content deemed offensive to "Islamic and societal values" in the region, apparently targeting programs that show people who are gay and lesbian. The Gulf Cooperation Council issued a joint statement on Tuesday saying asking to comply with their norms or risk facing legal action and even a possible ban. These Gulf countries are Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Apart from that, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates each published their statements separately decrying Netflix for showing content related to same-sex relationships on its streaming platform. According to AP new agency, Saudi state television also aired a video of an interview it conducted with a woman identified as a “behavioural consultant” who termed Netflix as the “official sponsor of homosexuality.” “If Netflix continued to broadcast the content then necessary legal measures will be taken,” the Riyadh-based General Commission for Audiovisual Media said in a stamen without elaborating further. The UAE, too, came out with a similar worded statement regarding Netflix saying that would keep a close eye on what the platform broadcasts in coming days and "assess its commitment to broadcasting controls" in the country. Many Muslim-majority countries have criminalised same-sex relationships and often banned films and shows which feature such relationships. Some countries even maintain the death penalty. Earlier this year, UAE and other Muslim states banned Walt Disney-Pixar's animated feature film "Lightyear" from screening in cinemas because it showcases characters in a same-sex relationship. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gulf countries ask Netflix to take down ‘offensive’ content or risk facing legal action

Iran slammed a Saudi newspaper for publishing a cartoon which resembles Iran's first Supreme leader, Ruhollah Khomeini. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Iran calls out Saudi newspaper for cartoon 'insulting' Khomeini

The Biden administration approved two massive arms sales to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to help them defend against Iran. Package includes $3 billion in Patriot missiles for Saudi Arabia and more than $2 billion for high-altitude missile defense for UAE.

WION Dispatch: US approves massive $5 BN arms sale to Saudi, UAE to counter Iran

According to a media report, Saudi Arabia is embarking on an ambitious plan to build the world’s largest structure in the northwest of the kingdom.

What is Saudi Arabia’s $1 trillion mirrored skyscraper plan in Neom?

US President Joe Biden's West Asia tour comes to an end. He attended the Arab leaders summit. He also addressed the Gulf cooperation council. He said that 'US will not allow walk away from West Asia'.

Takeaways from US President Joe Biden's West Asia tour

Biden's West Asia trip concludes: Biden addresses GCC+3 summit

Johnson also reportedly indicated that he is open to Penny Mordaunt, the junior trade minister, succeeding him if it meant that Sunak is kept out of the race.&nbsp;In other news,&nbsp;in response to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in 2018, Biden had vowed to make Saudi Arabia a "pariah" on the international stage. However, he ultimately came to the conclusion that U.S. interests required a recalibration, not a rupture, in relations with the country, which is the top oil exporter and an Arab superpower. 
&nbsp;

Click on headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-running-anyone-but-rishi-campaign-tells-defeated-candidates-not-to-back-him-report-497836">Boris Johnson running ‘anyone but Rishi’ campaign, tells defeated candidates not to back him: Report</a>
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With the race for the UK’s prime ministership gaining heat, interim prime minister Boris Johnson has urged the defeated Tory member candidates to “back anyone but Rishi Sunak”, according to local media reports.&nbsp;According to The Times newspaper, Johnson, who resigned as the leader of the ruling Conservative Party on July 7 after many of his cabinet ministers quit, has asked the failed candidates to make sure that Sunak does not become the prime minister.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-live-parliament-to-convene-today-president-to-be-elected-on-july-20-497843">Ensure peaceful and constitutional transfer of power in Sri Lanka: UN</a>
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The UN mission in Sri Lanka has urged senior politicians to ensure a peaceful transfer of power in line with the national Constitution, following weeks of protests that finally saw the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday.

“The United Nations in Sri Lanka urges all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful transition of power in full respect for the Constitution,” said United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Hanaa Singer, in a statement issued on Friday on behalf of the UN in Sri Lanka.

She said it was “imperative that the transition of power is accompanied by broad and inclusive consultation within and outside Parliament”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arab-summit-biden-hopes-for-more-oil-israeli-integration-and-stopping-iran-from-getting-nuclear-weapons-497848">Arab Summit: Biden hopes for more oil, Israeli integration, and stopping Iran from getting nuclear weapons</a>
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In order to convince Washington's Gulf allies to pump more oil and to include Israel in the region as part of a new axis partly motivated by shared fears over Iran, US President Joe Biden talks with Arab leaders in Saudi Arabia on Saturday. In a joint statement published by the Saudi state news agency, the two nations stressed the significance of preventing Iran from "acquiring a nuclear weapon."

China: Xi Jinping visits Xinjiang after 8 years

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World turns to Stagflation from Inflation?

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Johnson also reportedly indicated that he is open to Penny Mordaunt, the junior trade minister, succeeding him if it meant that Sunak is kept out of the race. In other news, in response to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in 2018, Biden had vowed to make Saudi Arabia a "pariah" on the international stage.

Johnson also reportedly indicated that he is open to Penny Mordaunt, the junior trade minister, succeeding him if it meant that Sunak is kept out of the race. In other news, in response to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in 2018, Biden had vowed to make Saudi Arabia a "pariah" on the international stage. However, he ultimately came to the conclusion that U.S. interests required a recalibration, not a rupture, in relations with the country, which is the top oil exporter and an Arab superpower. Click on headlines to read more: Boris Johnson running ‘anyone but Rishi’ campaign, tells defeated candidates not to back him: Report With the race for the UK’s prime ministership gaining heat, interim prime minister Boris Johnson has urged the defeated Tory member candidates to “back anyone but Rishi Sunak”, according to local media reports. According to The Times newspaper, Johnson, who resigned as the leader of the ruling Conservative Party on July 7 after many of his cabinet ministers quit, has asked the failed candidates to make sure that Sunak does not become the prime minister. Ensure peaceful and constitutional transfer of power in Sri Lanka: UN The UN mission in Sri Lanka has urged senior politicians to ensure a peaceful transfer of power in line with the national Constitution, following weeks of protests that finally saw the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday. “The United Nations in Sri Lanka urges all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful transition of power in full respect for the Constitution,” said United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Hanaa Singer, in a statement issued on Friday on behalf of the UN in Sri Lanka. She said it was “imperative that the transition of power is accompanied by broad and inclusive consultation within and outside Parliament”. Arab Summit: Biden hopes for more oil, Israeli integration, and stopping Iran from getting nuclear weapons In order to convince Washington's Gulf allies to pump more oil and to include Israel in the region as part of a new axis partly motivated by shared fears over Iran, US President Joe Biden talks with Arab leaders in Saudi Arabia on Saturday. In a joint statement published by the Saudi state news agency, the two nations stressed the significance of preventing Iran from "acquiring a nuclear weapon." China: Xi Jinping visits Xinjiang after 8 years × World turns to Stagflation from Inflation? ×

Morning news brief: Boris says 'anyone but Rishi', UN on Sri Lanka, Biden in Saudi, and more

US President Joe Biden's West Asia tour comes to an end as he lays out a vision for US engagement

US President Joe Biden is receiving flak after he compared Palestinians to Irish people during his West Asia trip. Biden's remarks were slammed as 'absurd'.

US President Joe Biden compares Palestinians to Irish people

US President Joe Biden is in Saudi Arabia. He is attending the Arab leaders summit. He also addressed the Gulf cooperation council. He said that he 'Will not allow walk away from West Asia'.

Biden attends Arab leaders summit: 'Will not allow walk away from West Asia'

US President Joe Biden is set to depart for his west Asia trip tomorrow, this is his first visit to the region after taking office. Amid all this, the White House is now considering the resumption of sale of offensive weapons to Saudi Arabia.

President Joe Biden's West Asia trip to begin tomorrow, US mulls offensive arms sale to Saudi

The holiest pilgrimage in Islam begins in Saudi Arabia. A million pilgrims from across the world have gathered in the holy city of Mecca. However, this year Hajj begins with an added challenge.

WION Climate Tracker: Saudi Arabia hosts 1Mn worshippers this week with an added challenge

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