Politics

Chaired by the Crown Prince, the Cabinet approves amendments to the vacant land fees system

Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz chaired the Cabinet meeting held today in Jeddah.

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Published

9 months ago

April 29, 2025

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz chaired the Cabinet meeting held today in Jeddah.

At the beginning of the session, the Crown Prince briefed the Cabinet on the content of his meeting with the King of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, and on the substance of his talks with the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Narendra Modi.

In this context, the Council commended the results achieved by the second meeting of the Saudi-Indian Strategic Partnership Council, and the growing economic, trade and investment relations between the two friendly countries, as well as the endeavor to enhance bilateral cooperation in other areas.

The council approved the amendment to the white land fees system, and the updated organizational structure and guide for the Ministry of Investment.

Accelerating the pace of Syria's economic recovery

Minister of Information Salman Al-Dossari explained in his statement to the Saudi Press Agency, following the session, that the Cabinet then discussed the Kingdom’s overall participation in regional and international meetings, and highlighted its efforts to support collective action aimed at addressing current challenges and achieving stability and prosperity throughout the world.

The Council stressed that the security of the Middle East region requires expediting a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The Council affirmed the Kingdom’s continued efforts to accelerate the recovery of the Syrian Arab Republic’s economy, reiterating its call for regional and international financial institutions to resume and expand their operations in this brotherly country, and to support the aspirations of its people for a promising future of decent living.

Recognition of the efforts of government agencies in achieving "Vision 2030"

On the domestic front, the Cabinet expressed its appreciation for the efforts of government agencies that contributed to the achievements of “Vision 2030” as it approaches its ninth year and is close to achieving its major goals by achieving or exceeding 93% of the targets of national programs and strategies, according to the Vision’s annual report for 2024, looking forward to more successes and continued progress and leadership on all levels.

The Minister of Information explained that the Council discussed what the third phase of the Kingdom’s Vision 2026 includes, focusing on sustaining the impact of the transformation, taking advantage of new growth opportunities, while following up on and enhancing ongoing initiatives, and aligning the plans and programs of the Vision to increase the economy’s diversification and growth.

The Crown Prince's donation enhances the dignified life of citizens

The Council noted the outcomes of the Saudi Statistics Forum, which was held in Riyadh, coinciding with the 65th anniversary of the establishment of statistical work in the Kingdom, and with the achievement of a qualitative leap in international indicators related to this sector and its role in sustainable development, raising the level of quality of services, and promoting economic and social growth.

The members of the council appreciated the generous donation made by the Crown Prince to the National Housing Development Foundation in the amount of one billion riyals, as part of his constant concern for promoting a decent life for citizens, and his continuous interest in the housing file and projects aimed at providing suitable housing for deserving families in various regions of the Kingdom.

decisions:

The Cabinet reviewed the topics on its agenda, including topics that the Shura Council had participated in studying. It also reviewed the conclusions reached by the Council of Political and Security Affairs, the Council of Economic Affairs and Development, the General Committee of the Cabinet, and the Council of Experts regarding these topics. The Cabinet concluded the following:

- Approval of the Host Country Agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) regarding the establishment of an Interpol Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa on the territory of the Kingdom.

- Approval of a memorandum of understanding between the Riyadh Region Municipality in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Seoul City Government in the Republic of Korea for cooperation in the field of city management and operation.

- Approval of a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for cooperation in the field of mineral resources.

- Approval of a memorandum of understanding in the field of tourism between the Ministry of Tourism in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Ministry of Tourism in the Republic of Zambia.

- Approval of the draft memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Economy and Planning in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Observer Research Foundation in the Republic of India in the field of economic research and studies, and authorization of the Minister of Economy and Planning - or his representative - to sign it.

- Approval of a memorandum of understanding for cooperation between the General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Labor Fund in the Kingdom of Bahrain in the field of developing the small and medium enterprises sector and startups.

- Approval of a memorandum of understanding between the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the General Directorate of Taxes in the Kingdom of Morocco for cooperation in the field of tax administration.

Politics

Britain imposes sanctions on Iranian officials over crackdown on protests

Britain announces new sanctions against 10 Iranian officials, including police and Revolutionary Guard commanders, in response to the crackdown on protesters. Learn more about the details and the implications of the decision.

Published

4 hours ago

February 3, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Britain imposes sanctions on Iranian officials over crackdown on protests

In a new escalation reflecting strained diplomatic relations between London and Tehran, the British government announced a package of tough sanctions targeting 10 prominent Iranian officials, as well as security entities, in response to what the United Kingdom described as "systematic violence" perpetrated by the authorities against protesters during the recent wave of protests in the country.

Details of the penalties and those covered by them

The new blacklist included high-ranking figures in the Iranian security and political hierarchy, most notably the Interior Minister and senior police commanders. The sanctions were not limited to individuals but also extended to the Iranian Law Enforcement Forces (FRAJA), considered the main arm responsible for dealing with protests on the ground.

The sanctions also targeted members of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, a businessman linked to it, and two judges, indicating a British focus on the security, judicial, and economic systems that support repression. These sanctions include freezing the financial assets of those sanctioned within the United Kingdom, imposing a comprehensive travel ban, and preventing them from holding any administrative positions or engaging in any business activities that fall under British law.

The official British position

Commenting on these decisions, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper affirmed that this step comes within the framework of the United Kingdom's commitment to holding those responsible for human rights violations accountable. Cooper praised what she described as the "remarkable courage" shown by the Iranian people in the face of the security apparatus, considering the sanctions a clear message against the "violent campaign of repression" being waged by the authorities in Tehran.

General context and international dimensions

These sanctions come at a time when Iran is facing significant internal challenges, including widespread protests demanding political and social reforms. The authorities have responded to these movements with harsh security measures, drawing widespread criticism from international human rights organizations and Western governments.

Observers believe that the British move is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a broader coordinated effort among Western countries (including the United States and the European Union) to increase Tehran's political and economic isolation. These coordinated actions aim to pressure the Iranian regime to change its behavior regarding human rights, as well as other contentious issues such as its nuclear program and its regional role.

These sanctions are expected to lead to further stagnation in bilateral relations between the two countries, as Tehran usually considers such measures to be blatant interference in its internal affairs, which may lead to reciprocal diplomatic actions and an escalation in political rhetoric between the two capitals in the coming period.

Politics

Nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States resume in Istanbul

Crucial nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States have begun in Istanbul, with Saudi Arabia and Egypt in attendance, amid a US military buildup and demands for concessions to end the tension.

Published

8 hours ago

February 2, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States resume in Istanbul

In a diplomatic move aimed at defusing the escalating crisis in the Middle East, Iran and the United States are resuming their nuclear talks in Türkiye, amid widespread international and regional anticipation of the results of this crucial round.

Details of the meeting in Istanbul

Informed sources told Reuters that US Special Envoy Steve Wittkopf will hold a crucial meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Istanbul, Turkey. This meeting comes as part of intensive efforts to revive the long-stalled diplomatic process regarding Iran's nuclear program and to find common ground that would prevent a slide into open confrontation.

A diplomatic source in the region revealed that the talks will not be limited to the American and Iranian sides, but will also include representatives from influential regional powers, most notably Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The meetings are scheduled to be held at two levels: bilaterally between Washington and Tehran, and trilaterally with the regional parties, reflecting the desire of regional states to ensure that any future agreements take their security concerns into account.

Context of tension and military mobilization

These negotiations come at a highly sensitive time, as military tensions escalate in the Gulf. The talks coincide with a significant US naval buildup near Iranian territorial waters, a clear message of pressure from Washington. Meanwhile, Tehran faces unprecedented internal challenges, with the country experiencing what has been described as its most violent internal unrest since the 1979 revolution, further complicating the Iranian negotiating position.

US President Donald Trump insists that Iran must make substantial concessions regarding its nuclear program and regional activities, backing this demand with the deployment of a naval fleet to Iranian waters as a maximum pressure tactic. For his part, Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, confirmed that arrangements are underway for these negotiations, indicating Tehran's willingness to explore available diplomatic options.

Background of the crisis and the importance of negotiations

To understand the depth of these talks, one must consider the historical background of the nuclear issue. Since the United States withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran nuclear deal, in 2018, economic sanctions and a policy of "maximum pressure" have intensified, prompting Iran to gradually reduce its compliance with its nuclear commitments and increase its uranium enrichment levels. This situation has led to persistent instability in the region, punctuated by security incidents targeting maritime navigation and energy facilities.

This round of negotiations is of exceptional importance given its expected impact locally, regionally and internationally:

On a regional level: The presence of Saudi Arabia and Egypt represents a qualitative development, as the countries of the region seek to ensure the security of navigation in vital waterways and prevent a nuclear arms race in the Middle East.
On the international level: Global energy markets are closely monitoring these talks, as any easing of tensions would have a positive impact on the stability of oil prices and global supply chains.
On the domestic front: Any diplomatic breakthrough could help alleviate the economic sanctions that are burdening the Iranian economy and fueling internal unrest.

All eyes remain on Istanbul to see if last-minute diplomacy will succeed in sparing the region the horrors of a potential military conflict and establishing a new phase of security and political stability.

Politics

Saudi Arabia offers condolences to Congo for the victims of the Rubaya mine collapse

The Kingdom expresses its solidarity with the Democratic Republic of Congo and offers condolences for the victims of the Rubaya mine collapse, which left more than 226 dead, affirming its support for the Congolese people.

Published

10 hours ago

February 2, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Saudi Arabia offers condolences to Congo for the victims of the Rubaya mine collapse

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed its sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the Democratic Republic of Congo, its leadership, government and people, for the tragic incident of the collapse of a mining mine in the city of Rubaya, located in the east of the country, which resulted in hundreds of victims and injuries in a humanitarian disaster that shook local and international circles.

In its official statement, the Kingdom affirmed its full support and solidarity with the Democratic Republic of Congo in this painful tragedy, expressing its hope that this ordeal will be overcome, and wishing safety and security for the friendly Congolese people, and mercy for the victims, whose number exceeded 226 workers, in a heavy toll that reflects the magnitude of the disaster that befell the region.

Details of the disaster and the mining context in Congo

This incident once again highlights the numerous risks facing the mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in the mineral-rich eastern regions. Rubaya is a vital center for the extraction of strategic minerals such as coltan and manganese, but mining operations are often carried out using traditional (artisanal) methods that lack even the most basic occupational safety standards, leaving workers vulnerable to frequent landslides, especially during the rainy season when the soil becomes increasingly fragile.

Human and economic dimensions

Mine accidents in the Democratic Republic of Congo are a chronic challenge for the country, where a large part of the local economy and population depends on artisanal mining as a primary source of livelihood, despite the high risks. Observers point to the high number of casualties in the Rubaya accident as being due to severe overcrowding at the excavation sites and the poor infrastructure of the tunnels, which turned the site into a death trap immediately after the collapse.

The Kingdom's diplomatic and humanitarian role

The statement of condolence and solidarity issued by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reflects its unwavering commitment to the principles of human fraternity and proactive diplomacy during times of crisis. The Kingdom consistently strives to extend bridges of communication and support to sisterly and friendly nations facing natural disasters and humanitarian crises, thereby reaffirming its leading role in strengthening international solidarity and bolstering the psychological and moral well-being of affected populations.