Ambassador Faisal Al-Harbi of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia addressing guests (photo: TDS)

by Kirtan Bhana - TDS

4 March 2025

The founding of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) in 1727 marks a historic event in the formation and development of the modern nation it is today. The Kingdom began its journey nearly 300 years ago when Muhammad bin Saud was enthroned as the Emir of Diriyah, uniting the people and laying the foundation for the first Saudi state. This significant day was declared a holiday by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to celebrate the Saudi nation, commemorated annually on February 22.

In South Africa, Ambassador Faisal Al-Harbi of the KSA to South Africa welcomed the many guests who attended the celebration. “Founding Day is more than just a historical event, it is a reminder of the resilience, determination, and faith that has shaped the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia into the strong and prosperous nation we know today.” Referring to the geostrategic position of the Arabian Peninsula, Ambassador Al-Harbi spoke of the ancient lands and people, with their wealth of indigenous knowledge and resolve, playing a constructive role in an interconnected world.

Speaking of fostering partnerships and building bridges, Saudi relations with South Africa are strong, bound by a shared vision of progress and prosperity that reflects a commitment to future-connected growth. In this regard, Ambassador Al-Harbi hosted two high-profile delegations from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Finance for G20 preparatory meetings ahead of the summit scheduled for November in South Africa.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah (l) and Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan (r) meeting South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg, South Africa (photo; GCIS)

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met with President Cyril Ramaphosa, conveying greetings from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. They discussed ways to intensify and advance bilateral interactions and raised concerns about current international relations, supporting ongoing efforts to resolve them. Minister of Finance Mohammed Al-Jadaan also visited South Africa with a delegation to attend the G20 meeting, where they discussed the evolving financial architecture, taxation, sustainability, and other key economic matters. These crucial visits highlighted the importance of the G20 summit being held on the African continent for the first time.

The sighting of the moon at the beginning of March marked the beginning of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, signalling the start of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The dawn-to-dusk fast provides an opportunity for self-reflection and spiritual enlightenment.