Several articles cover Saudi Arabia’s global and regional influence, including discussions of potential meetings between world leaders in the Kingdom and its role in mediating international conflicts. Significant domestic developments are also highlighted, such as labor law reforms aimed at boosting the economy and enhancing the workforce. Additionally, the collection contains coverage of regional conflicts and humanitarian efforts, with a focus on aid delivery and the impact of ongoing disputes. Cultural and economic initiatives within Saudi Arabia are featured too, pointing to both an increase in tourism and growth in diverse industries like entertainment, technology, and the arts. Finally, sports, local events, and advertisements provide a comprehensive snapshot of Saudi life.

Study Guide: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) – 2025 News and Developments

This study guide is designed to help you understand and review the key themes and information presented in the provided document excerpts.

I. Quiz (Short Answer)

Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each.

1. What was emphasized by the Council of Ministers on the anniversary of Founding Day?
2. What was the approximate value of investments announced at the LEAP conference in Riyadh?
3. What is the stated goal of the labor system amendments announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development?
4. What obstacle did the Israeli government reportedly place in the way of aid delivery to Gaza?
5. According to the excerpts, what issue is King Salman Center focusing on in Sudan in the year 2025?
6. What is the aim of the “Iraa” academy launched by the Royal Commission for Al-Ula?
7. What is the King Salman Project for Relief and Humanitarian Action focusing on in the Al-Abyad Nile region?
8. What steps is KSA taking to become a world power in artificial intelligence?
9. According to the excerpts, what are the Saudia’s three leading products in the industrial field?
10. What, according to the excerpts, is the goal of Saudi Arabia in its relationship with Russia and Ukraine?

II. Quiz Answer Key

1. The Council of Ministers emphasized pride in the Kingdom’s history, its deep-rooted heritage spanning three centuries, and its foundations of unity, cohesion, justice, and continuous construction and development. This is a celebration of Saudi heritage.
2. The LEAP conference in Riyadh announced investments exceeding $14.9 billion, aimed at boosting innovation in digital and technical infrastructure, supporting research and development, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. This will accelerate the digital transformation of the Kingdom.
3. The labor system amendments aim to enhance job stability, raise the efficiency of the labor market to meet the needs of the private sector, improve contractual relationships between employers and employees, guarantee their rights, and create a more attractive work environment. The amendments seek to promote economic growth.
4. The Israeli government refused to allow entry of mobile homes, heavy machinery, and vehicles in order to obstruct aid. These actions would have alleviated the suffering of the people of Gaza.
5. King Salman Project is focusing on providing food security to the displaced people to encourage a return home in Sudan in the year 2025. The project spans multiple regions to aid people.
6. The “Iraa” academy aims to empower the residents of Al-Ula by providing sustainable learning opportunities, developing their skills and knowledge using the latest technologies, and offering specialized training programs to bridge skill gaps in line with the needs of the labor market and the future of Al-Ula.
7. King Salman is providing assistance to civilian refugees and those who have been injured or displaced by the conflict in the Al-Abyad Nile region. This includes providing medical supplies and shelter.
8. KSA is strategically investing over 14.9 billion dollars in the AI space to be at the forefront of this sector. The nation hopes to become a global hub for AI research, development, and implementation in accordance with its Vision 2030 initiative.
9. Saudi Arabia’s three leading products in the industrial field are phosphate, food product and chemical manufacturing. The nation hopes to continue expanding this field as part of its economic diversification goals.
10. According to the excerpts, the goal of Saudi Arabia in its relationship with Russia and Ukraine is to encourage sustainable peace and security by hosting peace conferences. KSA hopes to leverage its strong relationship with each nation.

III. Essay Questions

Consider these essay questions to further explore the themes of the document excerpts.

1. Analyze the role of Saudi Arabia in regional and international diplomacy as portrayed in these news reports.
2. How do the various initiatives mentioned (LEAP conference, labor reforms, Al-Ula academy, etc.) contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030?
3. Evaluate the balance between economic development and humanitarian concerns in Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy as evidenced by these excerpts.
4. Discuss the challenges and opportunities Saudi Arabia faces in its pursuit of technological innovation and diversification of its economy.
5. To what extent do these news excerpts present a cohesive and consistent image of Saudi Arabia’s domestic and foreign policy objectives?

IV. Glossary of Key Terms

• Council of Ministers (مجلس الوزراء): The cabinet or main executive body of the Saudi Arabian government.
• Founding Day (يوم التأسيس): A national holiday in Saudi Arabia celebrating the establishment of the first Saudi state.
• LEAP Conference: A technology conference held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• Vision 2030 (رؤية 2030): Saudi Arabia’s strategic framework for economic diversification and development.
• Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (وزارة الموارد البشرية والتنمية الاجتماعية): The Saudi government ministry responsible for labor and social welfare policies.
• Al-Ula (العلا): A historical and cultural site in Saudi Arabia undergoing development and promotion as a tourism destination.
• King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid (مركز الملك سلمان للإغاثة والأعمال الإنسانية): A Saudi organization providing humanitarian assistance around the world.
• Artificial Intelligence (الذكاء الاصطناعي): The simulation of human intelligence processes by computer systems.
• Gaza (غزة): A self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea.
• KSA: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia: Themes in Recent News & Reports

Okay, here is a briefing document summarizing the main themes and ideas from the provided sources.

Briefing Document

Subject: Analysis of Recent News Articles and Reports from Saudi Arabian Media

Date: October 26, 2023

Sources: Compilation of excerpts from a document (20694.pdf) containing news articles and reports from the Saudi Arabian press.

Executive Summary:

This document provides a high-level overview of several key themes and events highlighted in recent Saudi Arabian news sources. The overarching themes are:

• Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting regional and global peace and security
• Economic development and diversification in line with Vision 2030.
• Cultural initiatives and preservation of Saudi heritage.
• Developments in international relations.
• Domestic policy changes and social progress

Key Themes and Supporting Evidence:

1. Saudi Arabia as a Regional and Global Peacemaker:

• The sources consistently portray Saudi Arabia as actively engaged in promoting peace and security on the international stage..” (The talks come within the framework of the Kingdom’s endeavors to promote security and peace in the world.) This emphasizes the Kingdom’s stated intention to foster global security.” (…as everyone agreed that the Kingdom has become a focus of attention for all countries of the world, in addition to the efforts it is making to promote international peace and security, hosting conflicting countries and urging them to resolve their disputes through dialogue…) This underlines the Kingdom’s increasing importance on the world stage.

2. Economic Development and Vision 2030:

• A strong emphasis is placed on economic diversification, innovation, and technological advancement, all aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030..” (The Council praised the opening of (600) international companies headquartered in the Kingdom; in light of the stability and confidence that the Saudi economy enjoys at the international level, promising growth prospects, the existence of distinguished competencies and expertise, in addition to the strategic location.) This highlights the Kingdom’s attractiveness to international businesses due to its economic stability and growth potential.
• The document mentions investments in digital infrastructure, technology, research and development, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing as part of this strategy.” (It was also clarified that the implementing regulations and other regulations will be issued in conjunction with the entry into force of the amendments, in accordance with the Council of Ministers’ decision.) This refers to updates in labor laws aimed at enhancing job stability and attracting investment, a clear link to Vision 2030 goals.
• Mention is made of “NEOM” and “The Line” projects as examples of smart and sustainable cities relying on AI technologies, showing innovation.

3. Cultural Initiatives and Preservation of Heritage:

• Several articles focus on promoting Saudi culture and heritage, alongside modern development. (The historical events crowned with glory and pride are a mental picture with the title “Peace and Stability.”) This alludes to the promotion of national pride and a positive image of the Kingdom.
• References to historical sites and events like the “Day of Founding” indicate an effort to reinforce national identity.
• The establishment of “Ithraa” (إعاء), an academy in Al-Ula aimed at lifelong learning and developing skills relevant to the local community and economy, highlights a focus on cultural preservation alongside modernization.
• The establishment of Al-Diriyah as a cultural site.
• A “Taste of Our Beloved Saudi Arabia” event.
• Celebrations for the “Day of Foundation.”

4. Developments in International Relations:

• The sources document Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic engagement with various countries, including the United States, France, and Russia, discussing mutual interests and regional developments.” (And at the beginning of the session, His Highness the Crown Prince briefed the Council of Ministers on the contents of the telephone calls he received from His Excellency the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron…) This indicates ongoing diplomatic dialogues..” (…and on His Highness’s reception of His Excellency the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Marco Rubio, and what took place during the talks of reviewing the joint relations and ways to develop them between the Kingdom and their country and to discuss in addition the regional and international developments…) This points to the importance of Saudi-US relations.
• The report also mentions that Donald Trump may meet Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia, which highlights the country’s importance in mediating international relations.

5. Domestic Policy Changes and Social Progress:

• The sources suggest ongoing reforms and improvements in various sectors within Saudi Arabia.
• The labor law amendments are specifically mentioned as aiming to improve the work environment and ensure worker rights, aligning with broader social and economic goals. (…and that its development of the labor system took into account raising the level of clarity and transparency, as well as improving the work environment, supporting their interests and not neglecting training human cadres and their job stability…) This indicates a focus on human capital development and improving working conditions.

Important Considerations:

• The document primarily presents a positive view of Saudi Arabia, consistent with the perspective of state-affiliated media.
• Context is crucial: Understanding the events and policies within the broader Saudi and international context is essential for a complete picture.
• Further research is recommended to explore diverse viewpoints and critically assess the information presented.

Conclusion:

These news articles and reports paint a picture of Saudi Arabia as a nation actively pursuing economic diversification, modernization, and a prominent role in global affairs, while simultaneously emphasizing cultural preservation and domestic social progress. The information should be considered within the context of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategic objectives and the limitations of the sources themselves.

Saudi Arabia: History, Diplomacy, and Development

Saudi Arabia is a prominent nation with a rich history and a significant role in global affairs, as gleaned from the provided news excerpts. Here’s a summary of key aspects:

• Historical Significance: The “Qasr Al-Diriya” (Diriyah Palace) symbolizes Saudi history and its steadfastness amidst conflicts. The Kingdom observes a “Foundation Day,” reflecting pride in its deep-rooted history.
• Global Peacemaker: Saudi Arabia is recognized as a “global oasis of peace”. It hosted Russian-American talks, with the U.S. appreciating the country’s role in facilitating dialogue between the American and Russian foreign ministers. The Kingdom emphasizes dialogue to resolve international crises and support global security and peace.
• Economic and Cultural Developments:
• The “Creative District” initiative in Riyadh aims to foster innovation in design, media, and technology.
• Saudi Arabia is focused on developing the cultural infrastructure and attracting investments and talent to become a leading global capital in arts and culture.
• There is a growing recognition of the role of translation in cultural exchange and economic development.
• Regional Engagement: Saudi Arabia plays a role in resolving regional conflicts, including hosting meetings to discuss peace in Ukraine.
• Internal Affairs:
• The Kingdom’s Council of Ministers approved a new land transport system.
• The country is focused on strengthening cooperation with friendly nations.
• Saudi Arabia is working to combat corruption and develop policies for addressing corruption-related crimes.
• Commitment to Islamic Values: Saudi Arabia is set to host the second edition of the international conference on “Building Bridges Between Islamic Sects”. The conference promotes dialogue and unity among Islamic groups while respecting their distinctiveness.
• Focus on the Future: Saudi Arabia aims to be among the advanced countries, emphasizing the importance of skills, logical analysis, and effective communication for the new generation.

Saudi Arabia Labor Law Reforms

Based on the sources, labor reforms in Saudi Arabia include:

• Amendments to Labor Laws: Recent changes to labor laws include modifications to the probationary period, setting it at a maximum of 180 days with the possibility of extending it for 90 days. The new amendments also regulate termination of contracts and include modifications to the system of work concerning disciplinary actions and working hours.
• Leave Policies:
• The amendments specify a three-day leave for the death of a sibling.
• Maternity leave has been increased to 12 weeks with full pay, plus an additional month.
• Compensation for Additional Work: Employees with disabilities or those with sick children are entitled to compensation for additional work, with an additional 50% of their base salary or the option of paid leave.

These reforms aim to create a more transparent and equitable work environment, improve the quality of life for employees, and align Saudi labor practices with international standards.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Promoting Global Peace and Dialogue

Global peace is a recurring theme in the sources, with Saudi Arabia playing a central role in promoting it.

Key points on this topic include:

• Saudi Arabia as a Facilitator The Kingdom is actively involved in fostering dialogue between nations to achieve global security and stability. This is exemplified by Saudi Arabia hosting talks between the United States and Russia. The U.S. has expressed appreciation for the Kingdom’s efforts in facilitating discussions between American and Russian foreign ministers.
• Emphasis on Dialogue and Harmony The sources emphasize the importance of dialogue as the optimal approach to resolving international crises and fostering understanding between different viewpoints. Saudi Arabia is set to host a conference aimed at “Building Bridges Between Islamic Sects,” promoting unity among Islamic groups while respecting their distinctiveness.
• Commitment to Peaceful Resolutions Saudi Arabia is portrayed as committed to supporting initiatives for international stability and the establishment of global peace. The Kingdom’s efforts are intended to create a foundation for future negotiations on various international issues.
• Counter-Terrorism Efforts The importance of cooperation and coordination to counter threats is also highlighted.
• Neutrality and Mediation Saudi Arabia’s ability to serve as an impartial mediator is attributed to its political and economic standing, as well as the strong relationships that it maintains with global leaders. The country’s commitment to impartiality and honesty enhances its role in bridging divides between nations.

Saudi Arabia: Food Security and Economic Development Initiatives

Food aid is not directly discussed in the provided sources. However, some discussion of food security may be relevant.

Here’s what the sources do say:

• Food Security The sources reference Saudi Arabia’s concern with food security. The General Authority for Food Security plays a role in achieving sustainability and enhancing food security through its programs and initiatives. This includes achieving the highest levels of efficiency in managing food resources.
• Economic Development The sources highlight that one goal is supporting struggling communities.

Based on the provided sources, there is no direct mention of “food aid.” However, it can be inferred that Saudi Arabia is actively working towards achieving food security within its own borders.

Saudi Arabia’s Economy: Vision 2025

The Saudi economy in 2025, as portrayed in the sources, is characterized by diversification, investment in infrastructure and technology, and a focus on global partnerships.

Here’s a summary:

• Diversification and Growth:
• Saudi Arabia is experiencing an economic transformation, with a focus on diversifying its economy.
• The Kingdom aims to achieve sustainable development in various sectors.
• Tourism plays a role in the Saudi economy.
• Investments and Projects:The Kingdom is investing in various projects, including NEOM and the Red Sea Project.
• The “Creative District” initiative in Riyadh signals investment in the creative economy.
• Global Partnerships and Trade:Saudi Arabia seeks to strengthen cooperation with friendly nations.
• The Kingdom is involved in discussions on international trade and tariffs.
• Technology and Innovation:There is emphasis on adopting advanced technologies like artificial intelligence in various sectors.
• The Kingdom aims to be a leader in technology and innovation.
• Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs):
• The Saudi government supports SMEs.
• Challenges and Considerations:
• The sources acknowledge the potential impact of global economic factors, including trade tensions and fluctuations in oil prices, on the Saudi economy.
• The evolving relationship between local culture and global digital culture is also recognized as a factor influencing the Saudi economy.

The sources suggest that the Saudi economy is dynamic and forward-looking, with efforts to diversify, embrace technology, and foster international cooperation.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques sponsors the conference “Building Bridges between Islamic Sects”

Founding Day.. Pride in Deep Roots
Approval of the Land Transport System on Roads
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers – may God protect him – chaired the session held by the Council of Ministers yesterday in Riyadh.
His Highness the Crown Prince briefed the Council of Ministers on the content of the telephone call he received from His Excellency the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron, and on the content of His Highness’s reception – may God protect him – of His Excellency the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and what took place during the talks to review the joint relations between the Kingdom and their two countries and ways to develop them in various fields, in addition to discussing regional and international developments and the efforts made in this regard. In this context, the Council expressed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s welcome to hosting the talks between the Russian Federation and the United States of America, within the framework of the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance security and peace in the world. In local affairs, the Council of Ministers expressed, on the occasion of (Founding Day) which falls next Saturday (February 22), pride in the history of the Saudi state, its deep roots and its three-century-long civilization, and what it has established in terms of unity, cohesion, justice, and continued construction and development. The Council noted the success of the fourth edition of the “LEAP 2025” conference, which was held in Riyadh under the title “New Horizons,” and what it included in terms of announcing a series of investments and launches worth more than $14.9 billion to enhance innovation in digital infrastructure and technology, and support research and development, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. The Council also welcomed the opening of 600 global companies headquartered in the Kingdom. In light of the stability and confidence enjoyed by the Saudi economy at the international level, promising growth prospects, and the presence of distinguished competencies and expertise, in addition to the strategic location. The Council of Ministers decided to approve the Road Transport System.

Crown Prince discusses regional and international developments with Lavrov
The Kingdom.. An oasis of global peace

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received in his office in Al-Yamamah Palace yesterday, His Excellency the Russian Foreign Minister, Mr. Sergei Lavrov.
His Royal Highness the Crown Prince welcomed the Russian Foreign Minister and his accompanying delegation on their visit to the Kingdom, while His Excellency expressed his happiness to visit the Kingdom and meet His Highness the Crown Prince.
During the reception, aspects of bilateral relations between the two friendly countries were reviewed, and ways to enhance and develop them in various fields.
The developments of regional and international events were also discussed, and views were exchanged regarding them, as well as the efforts made towards them to achieve security and stability. On the other hand, and under the direction of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Council of Ministers – may God protect him – the Kingdom hosted, yesterday, Tuesday, in the capital, Riyadh, talks between the Russian Federation and the United States of America, in the presence of His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and His Excellency Minister of State and Member of the Council of Ministers, Dr. Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban. The Russian side was headed by His Excellency the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr. Sergei Lavrov, while the American side was headed by His Excellency the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Marco Rubio. The talks come within the framework of the Kingdom’s efforts to enhance security and peace in the world.

Labor system amendments raise the level of clarity and transparency

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the entry into force of the Labor System amendments, based on Cabinet Resolution No. (117), with the aim of enhancing job stability and raising the efficiency of the labor market to meet the needs of the private sector. The new amendments include amending 38 articles of the system, in addition to deleting 7 articles, and adding two new articles, which contributes to developing contractual relations between the parties to the work, ensuring their rights, and creating a more attractive and stable work environment, in line with the labor market strategy. The Ministry stressed that these amendments come within the framework of ongoing efforts to achieve the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, by enhancing the growth of the national economy, increasing job opportunities, and supporting the private sector’s contribution to development. It also explained that the executive regulations and other regulations of the same series will be issued simultaneously with the entry into force of the amendments, in accordance with the decision of the Council of Ministers. In this regard, a number of experts confirmed that the new amendments to the labor system raised the level of clarity and transparency and worked to improve the work environment and enhance competitiveness. They also sponsored the development of human cadres and did not neglect training workers and supporting their interests and job stability. They expected that these amendments would positively reflect on the Saudi labor market and encourage foreign investment and attract the competencies that the labor market needs. Among the most prominent amendments introduced within the new labor system, the details of which can be viewed on the website of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development, the provisions of Article 35 of the system have been amended, as the new version includes the following: “The regulations specify the procedures that ensure that the worker is not affected by the failure to renew the work permit, including the possibility of transferring the worker’s service to another employer without the consent of the employer of the violating employer.” Among those amendments is also the addition of a clear definition of resignation with a specific acceleration for it that supports the rights of the worker and ensures justice and equality in the work environment.

Amidst the global regional political movement,

the name of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia stands out in international meetings and gatherings, and is repeated on the tongues, and permeates the daily conversations of citizens and officials around the world, as documented by the media in their reports, which unanimously agree that the Kingdom has become a means of attracting the attention of all countries of the world, in light of the efforts it is making to promote international peace and security, by hosting conflicting countries and pushing them to resolve their differences through dialogue and constructive negotiation. Globally, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister – may God protect him – directed yesterday, Tuesday, to host talks between the Russian Federation and the United States of America, within the framework of the Kingdom’s efforts to discuss ways to improve relations between the two countries, and enhance global security and stability, from the heart of the capital, Riyadh, which has been a prominent address for conferences that urge tolerance and coexistence. Choosing the Kingdom to be the venue for the meetings between America and Russia reflects the Kingdom’s status and political and economic weight, in addition to its accuracy and neutrality in being an honest and impartial mediator, capable of bringing the viewpoints of the two nuclear states closer together. In addition to that, there is the strong relationship of friendship that connects His Highness the Crown Prince with the American and Russian presidents, and their great confidence in His Highness’s opinions and his wisdom in advancing the march of world peace. Regionally, Riyadh will hold a mini-Arab summit next Friday, aiming to promote peace in the Middle East region, by creating a unified Arab opinion that rejects calls to displace the people of Palestine, whether in Gaza or the West Bank, outside their country, while emphasizing that peace in the Middle East must be based on the two-state solution and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. These are demands that the Kingdom has repeatedly stressed, and has adopted as a principle that it does not deviate from in its dealings with the Palestinian cause. Riyadh’s hosting of the US-Russian talks and the mini-Arab summit clearly confirms that the Kingdom makes, sponsors and supports peace regionally and internationally, as evidenced by the modern history of Saudi Arabia, which has previously hosted peace talks for many countries that were at odds, during which Riyadh stood neutral and succeeded in resolving those differences, in repeated scenes that gained much appreciation and respect from internationals, which strengthened international confidence in the Kingdom’s capabilities, principles and steadfastness, by giving priority to the language of peace and dialogue. On war and conflicts.

The occupation obstructs the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza

The ceasefire in Gaza entered its 32nd day yesterday, Tuesday, as Israel continues to refuse to allow the entry of mobile homes, caravans and heavy equipment, and obstructs the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The Israeli government continues to violate the ceasefire agreement on various fronts and fronts and refrains from implementing everything mentioned in the humanitarian protocol, as well as procrastinating in starting negotiations for the second phase of the exchange agreement, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announcing his commitment to US President Donald Trump’s plan to create a “different Gaza.” Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz decided to establish a special department in his ministry to “voluntarily” displace the people of the Gaza Strip. The department is scheduled to include representatives from other government ministries and various Israeli security agencies. This comes as the Israeli Security Cabinet meeting last night, which discussed the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, ended without a decision being made regarding the second phase of the exchange agreement, according to what the Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported. It also comes at a time when the mediating countries are making great efforts to start negotiations on the second phase of the exchange agreement, which was supposed to begin on the 16th day of the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. However, the Israeli government is procrastinating, evading, and obstructing progress towards the second phase, despite the pressures exerted by the mediators.

UN: Bloody clashes in South Sudan

The United Nations announced yesterday, Tuesday, the outbreak of bloody clashes in northern South Sudan, which claimed the lives of civilians and led to the injury of a peacekeeper. The oil-rich country, which suffers from poverty and did not gain its independence until 2011, is witnessing a lack of stability in light of repeated confrontations and internal political disputes. Fighting broke out between the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) and “armed youth” in Nasser in Upper Nile State, which borders Sudan, on February 14 and 15, according to a statement by the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). It did not identify the armed groups clashing with the SPLA, a military force led by President Salva Kiir, who heads the country’s unity government. The statement said some fighters used “heavy weapons, reportedly resulting in deaths and injuries among civilians and armed elements.” It did not provide details on the number of casualties, but added that a member of the UN peacekeeping force who was part of a scheduled patrol was wounded in a mortar attack. The UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for South Sudan, Nicholas Haysom, who leads the UN mission, called for restraint and a cessation of violence against the UN peacekeeping force. A UN statement also warned of “ongoing tensions” in Western Equatoria, on the other side of the country, between “organized forces,” without providing details. Haysom said the expansion in the two areas underscored the need for the full deployment of the unified South Sudan forces.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue providing you with quality content. Thank you for your support!