Politics

HONOR announces a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia's Al Hilal FC as an official smartphone partner

HONOR, a leading global brand in AI-enhanced smart device ecosystems, announced an agreement

Published

8 months ago

May 26, 2025

HONOR, a leading global AI-powered smart device ecosystem brand, has announced a landmark sponsorship agreement with Al Hilal FC, one of the most prominent clubs in Saudi Arabia and a major force in Asian football. This partnership marks a pivotal step for HONOR, strengthening its engagement with Saudi consumers and aligning with the Kingdom’s transformative vision for sports and cultural excellence.

This partnership combines HONOR’s leading technological advancements with the rich heritage of Al Hilal Club, the leading Saudi club and the most decorated club in continental championships in Asia.

This collaboration reinforces HONOR's position as a brand that celebrates local values and drives technological advancement. By supporting Al Hilal FC, HONOR contributes to fostering the Saudi community's passion for football, solidifying its role as a partner in Saudi Arabia's journey towards global recognition.

Al Hilal's decision to partner with HONOR over other technology brands highlights HONOR's innovative capabilities and growing influence in the region, setting it apart from other technology brands. Together, HONOR and Al Hilal share a vision of empowering communities through sports, enhancing Al Hilal's global standing, and inspiring its passionate fan base.

HONOR’s mission to deliver smart, user-centric technology aligns perfectly with Al Hilal’s values of excellence and community engagement. Known for its advancements in artificial intelligence and camera technology, HONOR phones offer unparalleled performance, empowering fans to capture and share moments with stunning clarity. This partnership positions HONOR to connect with Saudi youth, who are driving the Kingdom’s cultural and technological development, fostering a sense of pride and unity that extends beyond the pitch.

Mr. Jerry, General Manager of HONOR Devices in Saudi Arabia, said: “The partnership with Al Hilal is more than just sponsorship; it’s a shared vision of innovation, excellence, and community engagement. Al Hilal’s legacy of success and passionate fan base reflect HONOR’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional experiences. Together, we aim to inspire the next generation of fans and tech enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia and beyond.”.

Al Hilal CEO Mr. Steve Calzada said: “Al Hilal’s distinguished step comes as part of its ongoing efforts to sign sponsorship contracts with leading companies in their fields. HONOR is a leading company in the field of AI-powered smart device systems, and we look forward to achieving a mutually beneficial impact through this sponsorship agreement.”.

Politics

Saudi Defense Minister discusses regional developments with the Emir of Qatar

Following directives from the leadership, Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with the Emir of Qatar in Doha. The two sides discussed bilateral relations and regional developments to enhance security and stability.

Published

5 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Saudi Defense Minister discusses regional developments with the Emir of Qatar

With the generous guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister - may God protect them - His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defense, arrived today (Wednesday) in the Qatari capital, Doha, where he met with His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar.

Conveying greetings from the Saudi leadership

The Minister of Defense began the meeting by conveying the greetings of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to their brother, His Highness the Emir of the State of Qatar, and their wishes for continued progress and prosperity for the brotherly State of Qatar, its government, and its people. For his part, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani asked Prince Khalid bin Salman to convey his greetings and appreciation to the Saudi leadership, emphasizing the deep ties that bind the two countries.

Review of fraternal relations and defense cooperation

During the meeting, the strong fraternal relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar were reviewed, relations which are based on a long history of neighborliness and shared destiny. The two sides discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields, particularly in defense and military affairs, in a manner that serves the interests of both brotherly countries and strengthens the joint Gulf security system.

Discussion of regional and international developments

The meeting addressed at length current regional and international developments, with both sides discussing efforts to address several pressing issues in the region. This meeting comes at a sensitive time, as the Middle East region faces rapidly escalating geopolitical challenges, necessitating enhanced coordination and ongoing consultation among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to ensure security and stability.

The importance of Saudi-Qatari coordination

The visit of Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman to Doha is of particular importance, reflecting the advanced level of Saudi-Qatari coordination achieved recently. These meetings are an extension of the outcomes of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council, which aims to institutionalize and expand cooperation to encompass all political, security, and economic spheres. Observers emphasize that the convergence of visions between Riyadh and Doha is a fundamental pillar for regional stability, especially given the pressing need to unify Gulf and Arab positions on critical issues and matters of common interest.

Politics

US-Iran nuclear talks in Oman: Details of Friday's round

US-Iranian nuclear talks kicked off in Oman on Friday after the Trump administration agreed to move them from Türkiye, amid reports of Arab countries participating in the anticipated negotiations.

Published

7 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

US-Iran nuclear talks in Oman: Details of Friday's round

American media reports have revealed significant developments in the Iranian nuclear file. The Axios website, citing a well-informed Arab source, reported that a new round of nuclear talks between the United States and Iran will be held in the Omani capital, Muscat, next Friday. This move comes after the Trump administration agreed to Tehran's request to change the venue from Turkey to Oman, reflecting a shift in the logistical and political arrangements surrounding this complex issue.

Details of the transfer and potential Arab participation

The source indicated that the shift to Muscat was not merely a procedural step, but rather stemmed from an Iranian desire and American approval, highlighting the mutual trust in Omani mediation. In a related context, discussions are still ongoing behind the scenes regarding the possibility of expanding participation to include Arab and Islamic countries in this round, a demand long advocated by countries in the region to ensure their security concerns are taken into account, although the names of the countries considered for participation have not yet been officially disclosed.

The Sultanate of Oman: A history of mediation and positive neutrality

The choice of Oman to host these talks comes as no surprise to observers, as Muscat has a long and distinguished history of playing the role of "honest broker" in the Middle East. The Sultanate served as the back channel that hosted the secret talks between Washington and Tehran, paving the way for the landmark 2015 nuclear agreement (the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action). Omani foreign policy is characterized by positive neutrality and the ability to maintain balanced relations with all conflicting parties, making it the most acceptable venue for bridging differences in complex crises.

Strategic importance and timing of the talks

This round of talks is of paramount importance given the sensitive timing in the Middle East. With regional tensions escalating, the international community views the Iranian nuclear issue as a key to regional stability. The return to the negotiating table, specifically in Muscat, indicates a desire among the parties to de-escalate tensions and avoid military escalation. Furthermore, the discussion of involving Arab states reflects a growing understanding that any lasting agreement must have broad regional acceptance to ensure the security of navigation in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, and to comprehensively address the issues of nuclear proliferation and ballistic missiles.

All eyes will remain on Muscat on Friday, to see what this round of talks will bring, and whether Omani diplomacy will once again succeed in breaking through the wall of the ongoing crisis between Washington and Tehran, especially in light of an American administration whose decisions are characterized by surprise and decisiveness.

Politics

Details of the joint statement regarding Erdogan's visit to Saudi Arabia and his meeting with the Crown Prince

We are publishing the text of the joint statement issued following the Turkish President's visit to Saudi Arabia. The statement focused on strengthening economic and defense cooperation, and reaching an agreement on the issues of Gaza, Syria, and Yemen within the framework of Vision 2030.

Published

9 hours ago

February 4, 2026

Saudi Arabia News - saudinews50

Details of the joint statement regarding Erdogan's visit to Saudi Arabia and his meeting with the Crown Prince

In a move reflecting the depth of the historical and strategic relations between the two countries, a joint statement was issued at the conclusion of the official visit of His Excellency Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where he held extensive talks with His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.

A new era of strategic cooperation

This visit, which took place in February 2026, comes as a continuation of the path of developing relations that witnessed a qualitative leap since the visit of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince to Turkey in June 2022, and the visit of President Erdogan to the Kingdom in July 2023. The two sides affirmed that these mutual visits established a solid foundation for joint cooperation, which contributed to expanding the scope of the partnership to include various vital fields, in a way that serves the interests of the two brotherly peoples and enhances stability in the region.

Integration of economic and investment visions

The economic file formed a cornerstone of the discussions, with the joint statement emphasizing the importance of aligning Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 with Turkey’s Vision 2030. Both sides commended the outcomes of the Saudi-Turkish Investment Forum held in Riyadh, which saw broad participation from the private sector, stressing the need to increase non-oil trade and expedite negotiations for a free trade agreement between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Turkey. They also agreed to enhance cooperation in the infrastructure, contracting, tourism, and defense industries sectors.

Energy and Climate Partnership

In the energy sector, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the fields of electricity and renewable energy, including studies on electricity interconnection and the development of clean hydrogen technologies. Regarding climate action, the Kingdom welcomed Turkey's hosting of the Conference of the Parties (COP31), scheduled to be held in Antalya in November 2026, and affirmed their commitment to implementing the principles of a circular carbon economy to address environmental challenges.

Political consensus on regional issues

Regional and international issues occupied a large part of the statement, as both sides showed complete agreement in their visions regarding crucial issues:

On the Palestinian issue, both sides stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, an end to the occupation, and support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. They also welcomed current international efforts and the endeavors of the Peace Council, emphasizing the pivotal role of UNRWA.
The Syrian issue: Both sides expressed their support for the Syrian government’s efforts to maintain the security, stability and unity of Syrian territory, and rejected foreign interference or Israeli attacks on its sovereignty.
Yemen, Sudan and Somalia: The statement affirmed support for legitimacy in Yemen, and the unity and sovereignty of Sudan and Somalia, rejecting any attempts to divide these countries or create parallel entities that threaten their stability.

The statement concluded by affirming the shared determination to continue coordination in the defense and security fields, and in combating terrorism, in order to ensure regional and international peace and security, with an exchange of invitations for future visits that will strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between the two leaderships and peoples.