In a move to strengthen the historic diplomatic ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation, His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, received a written message from His Excellency Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. This message comes as the two friendly countries celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, reflecting the depth of their partnership and ongoing cooperation over the decades.

Details of the diplomatic meeting in Riyadh

The message was received on behalf of His Royal Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs by His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Engineer Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji, during his meeting today, Thursday, at the Ministry's headquarters in Riyadh, with the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom, Sergey Kozlov. The meeting took place in a cordial atmosphere, during which congratulations were exchanged on this important historical occasion, which represents a milestone in the development of relations between Riyadh and Moscow.

A historical depth spanning a century

This occasion is particularly significant given the historical background of relations between the two countries. Russia (formerly the Soviet Union) was the first non-Arab state to recognize the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (then the Kingdom of Hejaz, the Sultanate of Najd, and its dependencies) in 1926, thus establishing a unique relationship built on mutual respect. Over the past century, these relations have witnessed numerous developments and phases, culminating in the current strategic partnership that encompasses a wide range of fields.

The importance of strategic partnership and its international impact

The celebration of the centenary of relations is not merely a matter of protocol; it reflects the significant weight of both countries on the international stage. The Kingdom and Russia play a pivotal role in stabilizing global energy markets through their leadership of the OPEC+ alliance, in addition to their ongoing coordination on regional and international political issues of mutual interest. The exchange of messages between the two foreign ministers at this time underscores the desire of both sides to leverage this historical legacy to strengthen economic and political cooperation in a way that serves the interests of both nations and supports international peace and security.

The meeting concluded with a review of several bilateral topics and ways to develop them, in addition to discussing issues of common interest, which confirms the continued momentum in Saudi-Russian relations towards broader horizons in the second century of relations.

Kebbi State in northwestern Nigeria has witnessed a serious security escalation, as fighters belonging to the Lakurawa jihadist group carried out a series of coordinated armed attacks, killing dozens of civilians and completely destroying seven villages, in an incident that reflects the deteriorating security situation in the region.

In detailing the horrific incident, Kebbi State Police spokesperson Bashir Usman explained that armed elements launched a surprise attack on villages in the Bui area of ​​the Ariwa Administrative Region. The targeted villages included Mamono, Awasaka, Tungan Tsuho, Makangara, Kanzo, Goron Naidal, and Dan Mai Agu. Usman noted that local residents bravely attempted to resist the attackers and defend their property, but the intensity of the gunfire employed by the armed group resulted in the deaths of dozens of civilians.

Security reports from the scene confirmed that the attacks resulted in the deaths of more than 30 villagers, while local accounts from a survivor indicated that the death toll could exceed 35. The attackers not only killed and destroyed property but also looted and stole livestock, the primary source of income for the residents of these rural areas, before fleeing. Security forces responded to the incident, with joint units of the army and police, supported by local militias, deployed to secure the area and pursue the perpetrators.

These attacks come amid a complex security situation in northwestern Nigeria, where the activities of criminal gangs known as "bandits" intertwine with those of extremist jihadist groups. The emergence of the Lakurawa group and its increasing activity in Kebbi and Sokoto states indicate a qualitative shift in security threats. These groups exploit porous border areas and vast, uncontrolled spaces to launch attacks against civilians and security forces, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and fueling internal displacement.

Tragically, this massacre occurred just days after Kebbi province hosted the Argungo International Hunting Festival, a major cultural event listed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. The attack took place in the Ariwa area, only about 60 kilometers from the festival site, casting a dark shadow over government efforts to promote tourism and revive cultural heritage amidst ongoing security challenges that threaten the region's stability and the safety of its inhabitants.