Saudi Arabia is ‘neutral setting’ for US-Russia talks, says political commentator

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture has organized an event called “Memory of the Land,” which runs until Sunday in various regions of the Kingdom to commemorate Founding Day.
The event offers an immersive journey through the country’s rich history and cultural heritage and features interactive exhibitions, musical performances, and hands-on craft demonstrations that “bring historical narratives to life,” according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency.
In Qassim, a designated children’s zone offers engaging experiences to learn about the Kingdom’s history, while a family space includes “entertainment activities such as puzzles and exciting games,” according to the SPA.
The event also features musical performances, live performing arts displays, a food area catering to all age groups, and a craftsmen’s section supporting the Year of Handicrafts initiative.
It aims to showcase the Kingdom’s cultural heritage, revive the celebration of its founding, and enhance national awareness of its history.
In the Northern Borders region, there are exhibitions including interactive stations detailing significant developments that shaped the Saudi state.
The event fosters national awareness by recreating historical events, figures, and costumes while showcasing cultural heritage through a blend of traditional and modern styles, the SPA said.
The craftsmen’s area demonstrated artisans’ skills, offering visitors a glimpse into the Kingdom’s rich craft heritage, a children’s zone provided interactive history lessons, and there was also a family zone featuring puzzles and games.
In Najran, the event attracted a “remarkable” turnout of citizens and residents who “explored the establishment of the Saudi state through key historical, cultural, and heritage elements, notable figures, and traditional clothing,” the SPA reported.
Staged near King Abdulaziz Park, the event featured a range of activities inspired by Saudi Arabia’s natural and cultural heritage. The craftsmen’s area was a highlight, showcasing traditional crafts including incense burners and Sadu weaving, as well as Al-Khous — a traditional weaving method using palm fronds that is an important part of Najran’s cultural and social heritage.
“The process involves cutting, washing, drying, and bundling the fronds before soaking them in water to soften them. They are then sewn together, shaped into fabric, and carefully trimmed to remove thorns. Once prepared, the fronds are colored and crafted into finished products,” the SPA explained.
In Jazan, residents expressed national pride through traditional attire, Saudi flags and symbols. Accompanied by their parents, children explored the event and learned about Saudi Arabia’s history, spanning over three centuries.
The event also featured a series of activities with a modern touch, inspired by Saudi Arabia’s natural and cultural elements.

RIYADH: For the celebration of the Kingdom’s Founding Day, Christophe Farnaud, EU ambassador to Saudi Arabia, highlighted the long and deep relationship between the EU and the Kingdom.

“On 22 February, we pay tribute to the vision, leadership and resilience that have made Saudi Arabia a prosperous and influential nation,” Farnaud said.

“The European Union is proud to host the celebration of the Kingdom’s important national holiday, which reminds us of all the enduring and long-standing friendship between our two nations,” he said.

By working together on regional and global issues, the two sides were acting to strengthen their relationship, which continued to mature and evolve, he said.

Farnaud stressed the importance of continuing this warm and cooperative spirit, especially in the face of global challenges: “As we move forward in an increasingly complex world, it is more important than ever.”

The EU ambassador underlined the importance of the historic friendship and highlighted the values shared by both regions; peace, stability and mutual respect.

Farnaud told Arab News: “We have chosen to participate in the celebration of the founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is one of the most important dates in the country’s identity.

“It’s the ideal time to unite our efforts. I think that’s one of the reasons for this day, which is obviously a day for the Saudi people, but also a day of national reunion.

“I think for the embassies and for us who are here, it’s a way of associating ourselves with this celebration by bringing us closer to the Saudi heritage, which is actually a very important heritage.

“We’re standing in one of these old houses in Diriyah, a historic place, where the dynasty was born.

“Today, it’s also an emblematic site for one of the country’s most important projects and a place where evidence of this ancient heritage remains, which is particularly close to my heart.

“In this context, I was able to bring together my team and guests to do something together to celebrate this event and connect with Saudi heritage.

“We’re here to literally touch this local heritage. I think it’s a less formal but more engaging way to celebrate this event,” Farnaud said.

The celebration, held at Bonjour Saudi in Diriyah, allowed guests to discover local gastronomy and take part in enriching workshops.

It also provided insight into the Najdi gates, revealing their cultural significance and impact on Saudi heritage.