Saudi Arabia reaffirms centrality of Palestinian cause

RIYADH: The King Khalid Royal Reserve boasts rock formations shaped over thousands of years by natural erosion and fluctuating climatic conditions, sculpting its varied terrain into one of Saudi Arabia's most significant and captivating nature reserves.

Formerly known as the al-Thumamah Wildlife Park, the royal reserve located northeast of national capital is less than an hour's drive from the city center.

Among the main geological features in the reserve are the Al-Urumah mountains, known for their striking rock formations, including natural caves, rock columns, and stone bridges.

Stretching over 700 kilometers, the dramatic landscape provides an ideal destination for photography and adventure enthusiasts, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Yet, these landscapes are not just an aesthetic marvel; within their layers, they hold a geological record that reveals the environmental and climatic changes the region has experienced over time.

With the arrival of winter and cooler temperatures, the reserve becomes a perfect destination for ecotourism and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

Visitors can hike among towering rocks, enjoy picnics, cycle along scenic trails, stargaze on clear nights, and experience an exceptional environment for astronomical observation.

The preservation of these rock formations is crucial for protecting geological diversity and promoting environmental sustainability, while responsible practices contribute to the safeguarding of natural landmarks for future generations, SP said.

AMMAN: The Digital Cooperation Organization signed numerous memorandums of understanding during its fourth general assembly in Amman, which concluded on Wednesday.

The memorandums were signed between the DCO and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Foundation, Hewlett-Packard, the Agency for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Sultanate of Oman and 500 Global.

A statement of intent was also signed between the DCO and the UN Office for South-South Cooperation.

The signings came after a delegation from the DCO visited Jordan’s Prime Minister Jaafar Abdel Fattah Hassan.

Sami Smeirat, the Jordanian minister of digital economy and entrepreneurship, and the chairman of the DCO Council, said that Jordan’s presidency of the organization in 2024 had demonstrated the country’s ability to lead global efforts toward building an inclusive digital economy.

He said: “Throughout this year we have launched ambitious initiatives, strengthened public-private partnerships, and laid solid foundations to empower youth and women in the technology sector.”

Smeirat spoke of the 2025 presidency, which was handed to Kuwait.

He said: “We hand over the presidency to our brothers in the State of Kuwait. We reaffirm Jordan’s commitment to remaining an active partner in achieving the organization’s goals. We look forward to continuing our joint efforts to realize our shared vision: a digital world marked by prosperity and fairness for all.”

Deemah Al-Yahya, the secretary-general of the DCO, said that the general assembly marked four years of progress for the organization.

The secretary-general highlighted DCO’s upcoming ambitions, adding: “While we have achieved much over the past four years, there is still important work ahead to drive digital economic growth for all.”

Wednesday’s event featured panels and discussions with leading experts from across the world.

The DCO was founded in November 2020 and currently has 16 nations as members, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Pakistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh and Oman. It also has 39 observer and partner organizations.