Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 8, 2025: Managing Hajj Pilgrimages, Regional and Global Economic and Political Events, Diverse Domestic Affairs

These excerpts primarily discuss Saudi Arabia’s significant efforts in managing and enhancing the Hajj pilgrimage, highlighting logistical, technological, and healthcare advancements to ensure a safe and seamless experience for millions of pilgrims, reflecting the nation’s deep commitment to serving the Two Holy Mosques. The texts also touch upon regional and global economic and political events, including the conflict in Gaza, the oil market’s fluctuations amidst geopolitical tensions, and Saudi Arabia’s strategic initiatives like Vision 2030 and its environmental goals, such as developing nuclear energy and combating plastic pollution. Finally, they include articles on diverse domestic topics ranging from sports news and cultural traditions like Hajj-related songs to health issues like ADHD and local government projects aimed at improving public spaces and services.

Managing Hajj with Technology and Tradition

Hajj management is a complex and comprehensive undertaking aimed at hosting millions of Muslims within a limited timeframe in a specific location. It is described as the largest human and technological operational system in the world, requiring immense energy to provide high-efficiency services at a precise and defined time. The management of Hajj is rooted in an inherited national approach, starting from the era of the Kingdom’s founder, King Abdulaziz. Serving the guests of Rahman is considered a great honor that drives the country to dedicate all its visual and material capabilities.

The primary goal of the Hajj management system is to facilitate the performance of rituals with ease and comfort. This involves utilizing all capabilities to serve the guests of Rahman and make the pilgrimage easier for them. The system aims to ensure security, tranquility, and peace so that pilgrims can focus on worship and drawing closer to God. Efforts are made to provide a suitable environment and a pure spiritual atmosphere to make the journey a beautiful, lasting memory.

The success of Hajj management is the result of continuous efforts over decades. This includes developing services in the holy sites, notably the significant expansions in the Two Holy Mosques, and activating multi-service regulations and instructions for organizing Hajj seasons and preventing unauthorized individuals. The system relies on integrated operational systems executed through coordination between various security and service entities. Modern technical tools and studied operational models are utilized to control crowd flows and movements smoothly and safely, while also considering the human density and the cultural and geographic diversity of pilgrims.

Technology and innovation play a crucial role in Hajj management, serving as a direct test of the Kingdom’s technical capabilities. Digital solutions, AI systems, smart platforms, and smart aircraft operate in precise harmony, undergoing continuous real-time monitoring and evaluation. Each Hajj season represents a new experimental and knowledge-building cycle within the technical development system, with smart monitoring and control systems managing crowd movement in real-time.

Specific technological implementations mentioned in the sources include:

• Nusuk Platform: This digital platform facilitates the pilgrim’s journey from visa application to return. It simplifies booking, issuing permits, standardizing procedures, and offers over 130 digital services. Nusuk’s electronic reading operations reached over 5.5 million by the time of reporting, aiming to raise the efficiency of grouping and enhance organizational regulation.
• Nusuk Care Centers: These centers provide guidance, psychological support, and health support. They offer services in over 11 languages, including sign language, and operate 24/7 with a focus on human cases. They respond to reports and help pilgrims access services and vital locations. These centers are managed with integrated technology, linked to the Nusuk digital platform for data exchange and operational decision-making based on field analysis. Over 765,000 services were provided by these centers by the time of reporting. The initiative started in 2019 and has provided over 8 million services since then, in cooperation with the health awareness association, including guidance, report response, vital sign measurement, and health/language support.
• AI and Smart Systems: AI systems are used for crowd monitoring and flow analysis, utilizing thermal cameras linked to 24/7 control centers to ensure smooth movement and safety. This contributes to achieving the highest levels of discipline and organization.
• Smart Infrastructure: The expansion of the Grand Mosque includes smart infrastructure like expanded capacity for the Tawaf area, advanced cooling systems, multi-level bridges, escalators, and smart paths for the elderly and people with disabilities.
• Smart Robots: Robots are used for sterilizing floors and distributing Zamzam water.
• Smart Watch Technology: This technology is part of a virtual follow-up system used for remote health monitoring, demonstrated in a case where it helped save a pilgrim with a heart condition.
• Drones: Drones were used experimentally for the first time to transport medicine between health centers and hospitals in the holy sites, aiming to enhance the speed and efficiency of delivering medical supplies.
• Thermal Cameras: Used for field screening of pilgrims with diabetes to detect potential complications early.
• Smart Transportation: The Al-Mashaaer Al-Muqaddassah Metro line operates with a capacity of over 72,000 passengers per hour, transporting large numbers of pilgrims between sites like Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina. This system uses 17 trains, contributing to reducing congestion and carbon emissions. It is operated by “SAR” and supports the objectives of Vision 2030 by providing efficient, reliable, and sustainable transportation.
• Crowd Management: A smart system for managing crowds uses a computerized schedule to divide pilgrims into time batches, tracks the movement of each group using electronic bracelets linked to guidance and emergency systems, and relies on central control rooms monitoring over 4,000 cameras. This system helped reduce accidents and ensure balanced distribution of pilgrims.
• “No Hajj Without Permit” Campaign: This security campaign aims to reinforce discipline, protect legal pilgrims, and facilitate crowd management in a safe environment. Security efforts continue until pilgrims complete their rituals and return home safely. Pilgrims are urged to follow specific paths and instructions during their movements, particularly during the Days of Tashreeq.

The Hajj management system aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to enhance the human aspect and improve the quality of life. It reflects the caring attention given to pilgrims and emphasizes continuous improvement and development. Large budgets are generously spent without focusing on financial return. This service is considered an inherited tradition reflecting Islamic values of generosity and altruism, and being servants of the guests of Rahman is viewed as an honor.

Serving Hajj pilgrims is not merely a functional task but an institutional duty rooted in the state’s identity. Article 24 of the Basic Law of Governance mandates that the state give special care to the endowments of the Two Holy Mosques, provide security and services to their visitors, and facilitate the performance of Hajj, Umrah, and visitation rituals to the fullest. This commitment is a core component of the Kingdom’s political and administrative identity. Vision 2030 has notably reshaped the relationship between technology and public service in Hajj. The overall goal is to transform the Hajj experience into a facilitated, safe, and sustainable model while maintaining the sanctity of the place and the rituals. This Saudi-made “Smart Hajj” model moves steadily towards the world while remaining rooted in its service to the guests of Rahman.

Saudi Vision 2030 Environmental Initiatives

Based on the sources provided, Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in environmental initiatives, which are highlighted as an integral part of Saudi Vision 2030.

The Kingdom adopts an ambitious and proactive vision to confront global environmental challenges. This vision is embodied in its Green Initiatives, aiming for Saudi Arabia to be a major player in global efforts to combat climate change and preserve ecosystems for future generations.

Key initiatives mentioned include the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, launched by the Crown Prince. The Saudi Green Initiative has three primary goals:

• Reducing carbon emissions by 278 million tons annually by 2030.
• Planting 10 billion trees in the coming decades, which is equivalent to rehabilitating 40 million hectares of degraded land.
• Protecting over 644,000 square kilometers of land and sea by 2030.

Progress is already being made, with hundreds of millions of trees and shrubs planted since 2021 and extensive areas of degraded land rehabilitated.

Efforts also specifically target combating desertification through massive afforestation projects, utilizing modern irrigation and water management technologies, and rehabilitating degraded pastures. These initiatives are aimed at increasing green areas, improving air quality, reducing dust storms, enhancing biodiversity, and creating new economic opportunities.

Beyond these large-scale initiatives, Saudi Arabia is also working on developing renewable energy projects, such as solar and green hydrogen, to lessen reliance on fossil fuels and move towards a circular carbon economy.

These initiatives have led to the establishment of regional programs and centers, including:

• The Regional Center for Dust and Sandstorms.
• The Regional Climate Change Center.
• The Regional Cloud Seeding Program.

The success of Hajj management also includes the “Green Hajj” initiative, which integrates sustainability principles into Hajj services. Specific initiatives within this framework include:

• Using renewable energy for Hajj facilities.
• Implementing advanced waste management systems, including recycling and sorting.
• Initiatives to reduce food waste and distribute surplus food.
• Utilizing technologies to rationalize water consumption and air conditioning. These efforts align with Vision 2030’s environmental goals and serve as a global model for managing large human gatherings while minimizing environmental impact.

Furthermore, the source highlights achievements in protecting natural heritage through the recognition of Geoparks. The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification and the National Committee to Combat Desertification nominated Riyadh North Geopark and Salma Geopark for the UNESCO Global Geoparks list. UNESCO announced their inclusion in April 2025. These Geoparks, such as Riyadh North Geopark (covering 3000 sq km with diverse natural and historical features) and Salma Geopark (known for unique geological formations near Ha’il), are utilized to promote scientific tourism and sustainable local development. This international recognition is seen as a significant boost to the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its economy through environmental and geological tourism, aligning with Vision 2030’s economic transformation plans and creating new job opportunities.

The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification emphasizes that these achievements underscore the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage and its strategic direction to transform environmental areas into drivers of sustainable development. The National Center for Meteorology also contributes by launching educational and awareness programs about climate and environmental challenges.

Overall, the environmental initiatives discussed reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection, guided by the objectives of Vision 2030.

Global and Regional Market Trends

Based on the provided sources and our conversation, there are several economic and market trends discussed across different sectors:

• Global Financial Markets (Gold, Silver, Stocks, Bonds, Currencies):
• Prices of gold and silver fell by more than 1% on a specific Friday, influenced by the US jobs report. Gold’s spot price reached $3,316.13 per ounce. Gold futures contracts also declined by 0.8% to $3,346.60. Silver’s spot price fell by 0.5% to $35.96 per ounce, although it had reached its highest level in over 13 years earlier.
• Platinum rose by 2.5% to $1,158.20 per ounce, reaching its highest level since March 2022, while palladium increased by 3.9% to $1,045.45 per ounce. Both metals were heading for weekly gains.
• The US Labor Department report showed non-agricultural jobs increased by 139,000 in May, slightly above the 130,000 forecast. The unemployment rate remained stable at 4.2%. Average wage growth also exceeded expectations.
• These economic data were seen as negative for gold prices, suggesting the Federal Reserve might keep interest rates unchanged for a while. Market participants were already pricing in only one interest rate cut by December.
• US stock markets closed higher on the same Friday, with indices (Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, Nasdaq Composite) reaching weekly gains. Positive US employment data helped sentiment. European stocks also rose, achieving their second consecutive weekly gain, supported by the positive US data and reduced trade conflict fears.
• The Dollar index, which measures the US currency against a basket of currencies, rose by 0.51% to 99.18 following the better-than-expected jobs data. The Euro fell by 0.42% to $1.1396 against the Dollar, and the Yen fell by 0.87% to 144.77 per Dollar.
• Cryptocurrencies also saw gains, with Bitcoin rising 3.80% to $104,334.11 and Ethereum rising 3.7% to $2,487.77.
• US Treasury bond yields rose, with the 30-year bond yield reaching 4.9655% and the 10-year yield reaching 4.041%. These movements align with expectations of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy.
• Geopolitical uncertainty is noted as a factor influencing safe-haven assets like gold and the Yen. Trade negotiations, particularly between the US and China, create volatility, impacting markets like gold. New tariffs could pressure production costs and potentially lead to imported inflation.
• Energy Market (Oil):
• Oil prices increased on Friday, marking a first weekly gain in three weeks for Brent crude. Brent crude futures settled at $66.47 per barrel, up $1.13 or 1.73%. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude settled at $64.58 per barrel, up $1.21 or 1.91%.
• Brent crude rose 2.75% over the past week, and WTI rose about 5%, supported by expectations of lower global supplies in the coming months.
• The positive US jobs report helped boost hopes for economic growth and demand, including for oil.
• OPEC+ agreed to increase production by 411,000 barrels per day in July, part of a larger plan to add 2.2 million bpd back to the market. This increase, alongside supply from non-OPEC countries like Kazakhstan, is expected to lead to a surplus in the market in the final quarter of the year, potentially putting downward pressure on prices.
• US crude production and export data showed a decline in May. US crude faces increasing competition from OPEC and its allies.
• The long-term forecast for oil is influenced by the transition towards more sustainable fuels. Global oil consumption is expected to grow by 970,000 bpd in 2025 and 900,000 bpd in 2026. Global crude production is expected to grow by 840,000 bpd in 2025 and 680,000 bpd in 2026.
• Nuclear Energy Sector:
• Nuclear power plants are considered a key source of reliable, efficient, and clean electricity, supporting energy security.
• As of 2024, there are approximately 411 operating nuclear power plants globally, with around 65 under construction in 15 countries. Nuclear power accounts for about 9% of the global electricity mix.
• France generates 65% of its electricity from its 57 nuclear reactors. The UAE generates 20%, South Korea 30%, and Canada 15% from nuclear power.
• Challenges include managing the nuclear fuel cycle, storing radioactive waste, the high material cost of building plants, and geopolitical issues affecting uranium supply.
• Saudi Arabia supports the peaceful use of nuclear power and is investing in training its citizens in nuclear engineering. King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy was established, and a Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission was created. A low-power research reactor project (LPRR-100 kWt) is in its final stages.
• Impact of AI on the Labor Market:
• AI is replacing jobs in various sectors, from call centers to content writing and simple programming tasks. This is happening rapidly and with less need for physical infrastructure or extensive training compared to previous technological shifts.
• Current public policy responses are seen as lagging and focusing on superficial solutions like basic programming training, which are insufficient given AI’s advanced capabilities.
• The real issue is not just job replacement but a deeper systemic problem that requires understanding the diverse perspectives of stakeholders (company, employee, economist) and finding integrated solutions.
• There is a need for a “soft systems methodology” to address complex problems like AI-driven unemployment by considering multiple viewpoints and areas of influence.
• An example is given of a company automating customer support with AI, leading to cost savings and shareholder value, but displacing workers, potentially lowering wages and local consumption, while retraining programs are insufficient.
• The sources argue that relying on the market to automatically self-correct (“automatic solution illusion”) is not a viable strategy; proactive, integrated policies are necessary. Saudi Arabia is investing in AI as part of Vision 2030 and aims to be a model, requiring integrated labor policies, education reform, and social protection.
• Environmental Tourism:
• Saudi Arabia’s environmental initiatives, including the Saudi Green Initiative and Middle East Green Initiative, contribute to sustainable development.
• Recognizing Geoparks (Riyadh North Geopark, Salma Geopark) by UNESCO promotes scientific tourism and sustainable local development. This diversification of the economy through environmental and geological tourism creates new economic opportunities and jobs, aligning with Vision 2030.
• Sports Economics/Labor Market:
• The Saudi League is highlighted as attracting high-profile coaches with significant salaries.
• Financial investment and decision-making by major sports clubs (Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Qadisiyah, Al Ahli) are discussed in the context of managing various sports teams. Some clubs are making decisions to cut funding for certain sports despite past successes.
• Success in sports leagues (like handball) is linked to increased financial investment, organization, and attracting talent (players, referees), which can lead to higher attendance and revenue (ticket sales) and the potential to host international tournaments.
• The location of Al Qadisiyah in Al Khobar is mentioned as potentially making it easier to attract talent due to the city being a hub for residents.
• Pharmaceutical Market (Specific):
• In the context of discussing ADHD, certain medications like Ritalin, Dextroamphetamine, and Captagon are mentioned as effective treatments under medical supervision. It is noted that Captagon/Amphetamines are prohibited in most Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, and treated as narcotics, despite their potential medical use. This implies a market influenced by regulatory restrictions.

Pilgrim Healthcare: Saudi Arabia’s Integrated System

Based on the provided sources and our conversation, healthcare for pilgrims during the Hajj season is a major focus for Saudi Arabia, characterized by a comprehensive and integrated system utilizing advanced technology and dedicated human resources.

Here’s a breakdown of the key aspects discussed:

1. Overarching Commitment and Scope: Serving pilgrims is a core responsibility for the Kingdom, deeply rooted in its identity and history, and placed at the forefront of its concerns. This commitment is part of a deeply rooted national tradition and reflects the values of hospitality and altruism. The government allocates significant budgets without seeking financial return to develop services and improve the Hajj experience.
2. Integrated System and Infrastructure: The healthcare system for pilgrims is described as integrated and operating within a comprehensive operational system. This system includes a network of facilities strategically located throughout the holy sites. The infrastructure development is ongoing and includes significant expansions of the Grand Mosque and other facilities.
3. Facilities and Capacity:

• There has been a significant increase in clinical bed capacity by over 60%.
• An emergency hospital has been opened.
• 71 rapid intervention points have been equipped in the holy sites for quick medical access.
• Ambulance capabilities have been substantially increased to over 3,000 compared to the previous year.
• Mobile hospitals and health centers are part of the system.

1. Range of Health Services: A wide array of services are provided, from basic care to advanced medical interventions.

• Over 125,573 health services were provided.
• Advanced operations were performed, including 216 cardiac catheterizations and 18 open-heart surgeries. These are carried out by qualified Saudi medical staff.
• Kidney dialysis and other operations are also available.
• Preventative care is a key focus. This includes field surveys and screening.
• Specific screening for pilgrims with diabetes using thermal cameras and infrared technology is conducted to detect complications like diabetic foot early. Guidance and preventative gifts are also provided to high-risk individuals.
• The “Nusuk Care” centers provide guidance and health support around the clock. They have provided over 8 million services since 2019.

1. Technology in Healthcare: Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and quality of health services.

• The “Nusuk” application is a key digital platform, serving as a gateway for pilgrims and providing over 130 digital services. It stores personal and health data to facilitate service delivery. Over 5.5 million electronic readings of the “Nusuk” card were used.
• The “Nusuk Digital” platform organizes contracts, issues visas, and unifies procedures.
• Smart watches and virtual monitoring systems are used for remote patient monitoring, enabling rapid response to health changes. This technology helped save a pilgrim experiencing heart complications.
• Drones are used experimentally for transporting medicines and medical supplies between health centers and hospitals in the holy sites to speed up delivery.
• AI and advanced technologies are used for crowd monitoring, analysis, and ensuring smooth movement.
• Infrared technology (thermal cameras) is used for medical screening, specifically for detecting diabetic foot complications.
• The “Nusuk Care” centers are managed technologically and linked to the “Nusuk” digital platform for real-time data exchange and operational decisions.

1. Human Element and Support:

• The system relies on highly efficient and experienced staff.
• “Nusuk Care” centers are staffed by qualified personnel who provide human, linguistic, and psychological support.
• Staff at these centers speak over 11 languages, including sign language, reflecting the diversity of pilgrims.
• Security personnel are also involved in providing assistance to pilgrims, helping the elderly, offering water, or assisting lost children.
• Volunteers and staff from various sectors contribute to serving pilgrims. Serving pilgrims is a deep-rooted tradition passed down through generations.

1. Safety and Ease: The primary goals of the healthcare and overall Hajj management system are to ensure the safety, tranquility, and ease of pilgrims in performing their rituals. Preventative health measures and rapid response systems are crucial for achieving this.
2. Pilgrim Experience: The sources highlight that pilgrims have directly experienced the significant facilitations and integrated services provided. A personal account described a free comprehensive health check-up provided through the official Hajj registration process, noting the integrated facility, humane staff, and efficient use of technology for rapid results.

In summary, the healthcare system for pilgrims is presented as a robust, technologically advanced, and human-centered system, continuously improving under the directives of the leadership to ensure the well-being and safety of millions performing Hajj and Umrah, reflecting the goals of Vision 2030.

Global Geopolitical Snapshot: Conflicts, Diplomacy, and Trade

Based on the sources and our conversation, several geopolitical developments are discussed:

1. The Conflict in Gaza and Related Diplomacy:

• The sources report continued violence in Gaza, with more than 30 Palestinians killed on the second day of Eid al-Adha, mostly near aid centers in western Rafah and Khan Yunis.
• Shelling targeted tents of displaced people.
• A medical source at Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis reported 13 Palestinians killed and over 40 injured when occupation forces shelled displaced people’s tents.
• Another medical source reported 5 Palestinians killed and others injured near an aid center west of Rafah.
• Local Palestinian sources stated occupation forces fired towards people waiting for aid.
• The total number killed by occupation forces while trying to obtain food aid reached 110, with 583 injured and 9 missing.
• An Israeli shell targeted a house near Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City.
• Intensive artillery shelling also targeted Beit Lahia in northern Gaza.
• The Israeli army destroyed residential buildings in eastern Jabalia and southern Gaza.
• The Israeli army admitted killing 4 soldiers in Khan Yunis and injuring 12 in Jabalia. According to their data, 862 Israeli soldiers have been killed and 5921 injured since October 7, 2023.
• UNICEF launched an urgent appeal from Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, calling for the war to stop and to end the suffering of children. A UNICEF spokesperson highlighted the case of a girl paralyzed by an airstrike and stated the message is directed at those with influence to stop the “brutal war against childhood”. UNICEF estimates over 50,000 children have been killed or injured since the start of the war.
• The head of the Palestinian National Council described the massacre in Rafah and Jabalia as a crime of genocide and ethnic cleansing, aimed at erasing Palestinian families from civil records. He stated that the United States bears direct responsibility for the continuation of these massacres due to its political and diplomatic protection and repeated blocking of UN Security Council decisions. He also asserted that the international community’s silence amounts to complicity.
• The Israeli Defense Minister announced the recovery of the body of a Thai hostage in Rafah, stating he was killed during his captivity. Hamas had taken the largest group of foreigners hostage.
• Israeli settler violence included cutting down nearly 100 olive tree saplings near Ramallah and chasing Palestinian herders from their land near Hebron.
• The sources report that the Israeli authorities’ refusal to allow international journalists into Gaza since the beginning of the aggression is a “ban on conveying the truth,” unprecedented in modern history conflicts. It is described as intended to inflame media deception.
• France’s Minister of Armies stated their position is “clear” against selling weapons to Israel, clarifying that only components for defensive systems like the Iron Dome are sold, which may be re-exported. He noted that using military equipment from the company Europelinks in Gaza would be a violation of the law.
• Saudi Arabia is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to gain international support for recognition of a Palestinian state and the implementation of the two-state solution.
• Israel refused to allow a ministerial committee from the Arab-Islamic summit to visit Ramallah. The Saudi Foreign Minister viewed this as confirming Israel’s extremism and rejection of peace and diplomacy, reinforcing Saudi resolve for diplomatic efforts.
• Saudi Arabia’s stance is that peace and normalization with Israel require the restoration of Palestinian rights, including an independent state on the 1967 borders.
• Reports mention Trump’s administration making moves such as removing officials perceived as cooperating with Israeli intelligence and warning Netanyahu against disrupting Iran talks or attacking nuclear facilities.
• Trump’s meeting with Syrian President Assad and lifting sanctions on Syria (reportedly at the Saudi Crown Prince’s request) is stated to have angered the Israeli government.
• An international conference for the two-state solution is expected to be held in New York under Saudi and French presidency. Several countries, including Canada, the UK, Belgium, Australia, Spain, and Scandinavian countries, are expected to join this initiative. Some sources indicate 10 new European countries, including France, will recognize the Palestinian state.
• Saudi Arabia is conveying a message to Israel and the world that it will bring change to the Middle East that preserves rights.

1. Russia-Ukraine Conflict:

• The Russian Ministry of Defense reported conducting strikes with long-range precision weapons against military targets in Ukraine and destroying four Ukrainian boats in the Black Sea.
• Ukraine accused Russia of delaying a prisoner exchange and body recovery, which Russia confirmed was postponed indefinitely.

1. US-China Trade Relations:

• Trade negotiations between the US and its partners, like the EU and India, remain volatile.
• The US and China agreed to hold further talks following a phone call between Presidents Trump and Xi. This call was described by Trump as “very positive” and creating a “very good situation” regarding trade.
• China granted temporary rare earth export licenses due to its own restrictions. The US suspended licenses for nuclear equipment sales to Chinese power plants.

1. US Internal Political Dynamics (Trump-Musk Spat):

• The sources report a significant falling out between former US President Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, leading to Trump refusing to speak to Musk and potentially giving up his Tesla car.
• This spat, triggered by Musk’s criticism of a spending bill, could have considerable implications, including potential loss of government contracts for Musk.
• Musk reportedly attempted to de-escalate the situation. European officials stated Musk is “welcome” to bring his business to Europe.

1. Canada-India Relations:

• Despite diplomatic tensions, Canada invited India to attend the G7 summit.
• The tension arose from Canada’s accusation of the Indian government’s involvement in the assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada in 2023, which India denied.

1. Saudi Arabia’s Broader International Role:

• Beyond Hajj, the Kingdom’s service of the Two Holy Mosques is highlighted as a core religious, historical, and security function. This is reflected in the leader’s title “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques”.
• Saudi Arabia is undertaking significant environmental initiatives like the “Saudi Green Initiative” and “Middle East Green Initiative,” involving extensive tree planting and combating desertification.
• The Kingdom was elected head of the World Meteorological Organization’s “Asia” region, recognized for its leadership and technology in meteorological services.
• Saudi Arabia is pursuing the development of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, emphasizing its commitment to this technology and related training and regulation.

These developments illustrate a complex global landscape involving ongoing conflicts, shifting diplomatic alignments, and the intersection of national priorities with international cooperation and tensions.

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!