In a move reflecting the deep fraternal and strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Saudi Fund for Development contributed to financing a vital project to expand and modernize Prince Faisal Hospital, with a total value of approximately US$14 million. The project site witnessed a groundbreaking ceremony attended by high-level dignitaries, including the Prime Minister of Jordan, Dr. Jaafar bin Abdul Fattah Hassan, and the CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development, Mr. Sultan bin Abdul Rahman Al-Murshid, along with a number of officials from both sides.

This ambitious project aims to revolutionize medical services for the beneficiary communities. It focuses on the complete renovation and modernization of the existing hospital building, as well as the construction of a new four-story extension. Spanning a total area exceeding 8,000 square meters, the project will provide ample space to accommodate the new medical departments and specialized clinics needed by the area's residents.

From a technical and operational standpoint, the project directly contributes to increasing the hospital's capacity, thereby reducing waiting times and enhancing the efficiency and quality of healthcare services provided to citizens. The engineering plan also includes the construction of a helipad dedicated to rapid medical response and air medical evacuation, and the development of medical infrastructure according to the latest international engineering and technical standards, in order to keep pace with increasing population growth and meet the growing basic needs in the healthcare sector.

This support comes within a long history of development cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Jordan, with the Saudi Fund for Development being a key partner in supporting infrastructure projects in Jordan for decades. This support is not limited to the health sector alone, but extends to the education, energy, water, and roads sectors, reflecting the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to supporting sustainable development in brotherly and friendly nations.

This expansion is particularly important given the location of Prince Faisal Hospital, which serves a large segment of the population in a densely populated area. The project is expected to have a tangible positive social and economic impact by improving public health indicators, providing a comprehensive and safe treatment environment, and creating new job opportunities during the construction and operation phases. This will enhance the stability of the healthcare system in Jordan and support its future plans.

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Senegal, Mr. Ousmane Sonko, arrived in Jeddah today, Sunday, accompanied by a high-level delegation, on a visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that reflects the depth of the brotherly relations between the two countries.

At the forefront of those receiving the distinguished Senegalese guest upon his arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport was His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah, who welcomed the Prime Minister and his accompanying delegation, wishing them a pleasant stay in the Kingdom.

The reception was also attended by a number of civilian and military officials, including the Deputy Mayor of Jeddah, Engineer Ali Al-Qarni, the Director of Jeddah Police, Major General Suleiman bin Omar Al-Tuwaireb, and the Director of Royal Protocol in the Makkah Region, Mr. Ahmed Abdullah bin Thafir. Also present were the Ambassador of the Republic of Senegal to the Kingdom, Mr. Biram Mbaneck Dieng, and members of the Senegalese Embassy.

Context of the visit and its political significance

Mr. Ousmane Sonko's visit to Saudi Arabia comes at a crucial time, as Senegal undergoes a new political phase following recent democratic transitions and elections that brought to power a new leadership eager to strengthen international partnerships. Sonko is a pivotal figure in the current Senegalese political landscape, and diplomatic circles view this visit as a step toward solidifying ties with major Islamic and Arab powers, particularly Saudi Arabia.

Historical relations and strategic partnership

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Senegal share strong historical ties spanning decades, based on Islamic brotherhood and joint cooperation in international forums, particularly through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Senegal is considered a strategic partner of the Kingdom in West Africa, as the two countries share similar views on many regional and international issues of concern to the Islamic world.

On the development and economic front, the Saudi Fund for Development has long been a major supporter of infrastructure and sustainable development projects in Senegal, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to supporting the stability and prosperity of its sister nations. Such reciprocal visits between senior officials are expected to open new horizons for economic and investment cooperation, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places particular emphasis on strengthening relations with the African continent, and in a way that serves the interests of both brotherly peoples.