The ceremony saw the swearing-in of ambassadors to a diverse array of nations, including Qatar, Brunei, Romania, Nigeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Albania, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, Tajikistan, Singapore, Myanmar, Nepal, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Netherlands. This diverse representation underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to strengthen its global presence and foster diplomatic ties across various regions.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman highlighted the importance of international diplomacy in achieving the Kingdom’s strategic objectives. The presence of Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan at the ceremony further emphasizes the support and commitment of the Saudi leadership to the diplomats taking on these crucial roles.

The swearing-in ceremony not only marks the beginning of the ambassadors’ new assignments but also reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to promoting peace, security, and cooperation on the international stage. Through these appointments, the Kingdom aims to build robust relationships that benefit both Saudi Arabia and the host nations.

Each ambassador brings unique skills and experiences that will contribute to their respective missions, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s ability to navigate the complexities of global diplomacy. The diverse backgrounds of the ambassadors are aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals, which emphasize innovation and collaboration in all facets of governance and international relations.

These new ambassadors are tasked with representing Saudi interests abroad while fostering mutual understanding and respect between nations. By engaging in meaningful dialogues and partnerships, they will work to advance shared goals that promote trade, cultural exchange, and social development.

The ambassadors’ roles will also involve addressing regional challenges and collaborating on international initiatives that aim to enhance stability and prosperity. Their work will be pivotal in showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to responsible stewardship in various global forums.

Furthermore, the engagement of ambassadors with their host countries will help to promote Saudi culture, values, and heritage. Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in nurturing positive relationships, and these ambassadors are uniquely positioned to highlight the richness of Saudi traditions and contributions.

The oath-taking ceremony serves as a powerful reminder of the Kingdom’s forward-looking approach and willingness to strengthen international ties. With leaders like Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the helm, Saudi Arabia is poised to influence global discussions and create pathways for collective progress.

In conclusion, the swearing-in of these newly-appointed ambassadors represents a bright future for Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic relations. As they embark on this vital journey, their efforts will contribute to fostering understanding and collaboration on a global scale. The Kingdom’s commitment to engaging with the world reflects its strategic vision and determination to play a meaningful role on the international stage.

The meeting reflected both nations’ mutual commitment to expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, diplomacy, bilateral relations, Saudi Arabia, Armenia, international cooperation, trade relations, political dialogue, economic development, cultural exchange, regional partnership.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the progress of Saudi-Armenian relations and explored opportunities to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, technology, education, and tourism.

Both parties emphasized their shared interest in building strong institutional ties that foster stability and sustainable development, mutual respect, and global peace, diplomacy, partnership, development cooperation, trade growth, joint ventures, innovation, cultural cooperation, mutual understanding, economic prosperity.

The discussions also focused on strengthening inter-parliamentary relations and fostering legislative cooperation between the Shoura Council and the Armenian National Assembly.

This exchange will enable both countries to share experiences, legislative practices, and governance frameworks that can promote mutual learning and policy advancement, governance, diplomacy, lawmaking, inter-parliamentary relations, strategic dialogue, institutional collaboration, global partnership, shared vision, leadership, reform initiatives.

The meeting underlined the importance of continuous dialogue and consultation as both nations look to deepen their engagement in key areas of mutual benefit.

The exchange also reaffirmed the commitment to peace, respect for sovereignty, and regional stability, which are essential for achieving long-term prosperity and understanding between nations, peace, stability, cooperation, bilateral dialogue, partnership development, international relations, regional peace, political cooperation, national progress, diplomatic trust.

The visit of the Saudi parliamentary delegation symbolizes the growing importance of parliamentary diplomacy as a bridge to stronger international ties.

Such visits create direct communication channels that encourage collaboration, people-to-people connections, and shared visions for sustainable development and regional growth, parliamentary diplomacy, people-to-people ties, sustainable cooperation, international friendship, diplomatic partnership, regional growth, innovation, mutual benefit, policy exchange, global progress.

In a related development, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan held a meeting in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

The two foreign ministers discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international issues of common interest, foreign affairs, global diplomacy, international dialogue, foreign policy, bilateral discussions, cooperation, mutual goals, peace diplomacy, sustainable relations, global engagement.

Following their talks, both countries signed a memorandum of understanding on political consultations, laying the groundwork for regular discussions on international issues, mutual interests, and shared initiatives.

This agreement further strengthens the foundation of trust and collaboration between the two countries, setting a clear roadmap for future political engagement and cooperation, memorandum of understanding, political consultation, diplomatic relations, trust building, bilateral agreements, policy dialogue, shared development, international cooperation, peace initiatives, global alignment.

Armenia and Saudi Arabia have increasingly emphasized their mutual respect for cultural diversity and cooperation in heritage preservation, education, and tourism.

This focus not only encourages economic partnerships but also builds cultural bridges that promote deeper people-to-people understanding and lasting friendship, cultural diplomacy, heritage exchange, tourism growth, education collaboration, cultural cooperation, people engagement, soft diplomacy, international friendship, global culture, regional unity.

The growing partnership between Saudi Arabia and Armenia represents a shared vision for global peace, innovation, and sustainable progress.

Both nations are working toward strengthening economic and diplomatic frameworks that ensure lasting stability and development for future generations, emphasizing cooperation over conflict, and unity over division, international harmony, peace building, sustainability, development goals, global cooperation, economic growth, mutual trust, visionary leadership, partnership success, shared future.

As the seeds of cooperation continue to grow, the meeting between the Armenian President and the Saudi Shoura Council delegation stands as a symbol of optimism and collaboration.

It reflects the positive transformation of Saudi-Armenian relations and their commitment to building a better, more interconnected future for their people and the region, friendship, unity, collaboration, progress, innovation, diplomacy, global peace, sustainable relations, economic development, shared prosperity.

This declaration comes as the EU continues to praise the steady progress made by Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova, countries that are showing strong commitment to democratic values, governance reforms, and European integration.

Marta Kos, the EU’s enlargement commissioner, expressed confidence in the future of a broader European community.

She emphasized that the Union must prepare itself for new members by strengthening institutions, improving administrative capacity, and fostering deeper unity among existing member states.

Her statement reflects growing enthusiasm in Brussels about building a stronger and more resilient Europe.

Montenegro, with its population of around 600,000, was highlighted as the leading candidate among current applicants.

The country’s dedication to judicial reform, transparency, and rule of law has earned widespread praise from EU officials and observers.
Its consistent efforts show that small nations can play a major role in shaping Europe’s collective future.

Albania also received special recognition for what the commissioner called “unprecedented progress.”
The country has advanced rapidly in governance reforms, anti-corruption measures, and alignment with EU economic standards.Albania’s journey demonstrates that consistent reform, citizen engagement, and visionary leadership can transform nations and bring them closer to European ideals.

Moldova was applauded for its determination and speed in implementing reforms despite facing external pressures and economic challenges.

Its accelerated progress, even under difficult regional circumstances, highlights the country’s commitment to democracy and European cooperation.

Observers say that Moldova’s experience serves as a beacon for other nations seeking to align with the EU.

Ukraine’s progress was described as exceptional, given its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.

Despite conflict, the nation has continued to move forward on key reforms related to governance, transparency, and anti-corruption efforts

EU leaders commended Ukraine’s resilience and dedication, calling its progress a symbol of courage and hope for all of Europe.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy welcomed the encouraging assessment, noting that Ukraine remains steadfast in its European journey.

He called on the EU to take decisive action to overcome political barriers, emphasizing that unity and solidarity are the foundations of a peaceful and prosperous Europe. His message resonated across the continent as a reminder of Europe’s shared destiny.

The commissioner also acknowledged that Serbia and Georgia face challenges that have slowed their reform pace.

However, she reaffirmed that the door to EU membership remains open to all nations committed to democratic transformation and the rule of law.

This balanced approach underscores the EU’s commitment to fairness, inclusivity, and long-term partnership.

As Europe looks ahead, the spirit of expansion carries broader meaning beyond borders and treaties. It represents a renewed belief in cooperation, shared prosperity, and the values that unite rather than divide.

A larger EU would enhance stability, strengthen the single market, and amplify Europe’s voice on the global stage.

Experts say that enlargement will also boost innovation, energy cooperation, and cross-border trade.

New members bring cultural diversity, fresh perspectives, and economic vitality, contributing to Europe’s growth and global competitiveness.

For millions across the continent, EU expansion is not just a policy goal — it is a vision of hope and shared progress.

The European Union’s commitment to enlargement reflects its core values of democracy, inclusivity, and solidarity. By welcoming new members, the EU continues its mission to create a continent of peace, prosperity, and partnership.

With Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova leading the way, the dream of a united Europe has never felt closer or more attainable.

The crown prince’s message conveyed deep sympathy to the Japanese government, the people of Japan, and Murayama’s family.

According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Prince Mohammed emphasized Japan’s long-standing role as a key partner and friend of the Kingdom, highlighting the enduring ties of mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values between the two nations.

Former Prime Minister Murayama, who served from 1994 to 1996, was widely recognized for his moral courage and historical reckoning.

He is best remembered for issuing the 1995 statement on the 50th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II, where he expressed “deep remorse” and offered a sincere apology for Japan’s wartime aggression in Asia.

The statement became a landmark in Japan’s post-war diplomacy, shaping its foreign policy of peace, reconciliation, and accountability.

The Saudi crown prince’s condolence message reflected a broader spirit of international solidarity and respect for historical legacy.

It underscored the Kingdom’s appreciation for leaders who promote peace, humility, and dialogue — values deeply aligned with Saudi Arabia’s vision for global cooperation under Vision 2030.

Murayama’s leadership came at a pivotal time for Japan, as the nation worked to rebuild its global image and foster reconciliation with its Asian neighbors.

His statement, known as the Murayama Statement, became a defining document in Japanese history, reaffirming the country’s commitment to peace and non-aggression.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his message of reflection and responsibility continues to inspire global leaders today.

Prince Mohammed’s condolence note also reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s respect for Japan’s democratic and humanitarian values.

Over the decades, Riyadh and Tokyo have strengthened ties through economic cooperation, energy partnerships, cultural exchange, and shared initiatives in innovation and sustainability.

In recent years, Japan has played an essential role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s diversification goals, while the Kingdom remains a vital energy partner for Tokyo.

This bond, built on trust and shared aspirations, reflects the broader commitment of both nations to a stable and peaceful international order.

Murayama’s contributions to global peace, his humility as a statesman, and his dedication to moral clarity have left a lasting imprint not just in Japan, but around the world.

His centenarian life symbolized resilience, wisdom, and leadership guided by conscience.

Through his message, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman honored Murayama’s enduring legacy — one rooted in compassion, responsibility, and the pursuit of peace.

His gesture reinforced Saudi Arabia’s evolving diplomatic approach, one that values human connection and empathy alongside policy and partnership.

As Japan bids farewell to one of its most respected post-war leaders, messages of condolence and admiration have poured in from across the globe.

Saudi Arabia’s tribute stands as a testament to the mutual admiration between the two nations and the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering harmony and respect in international relations.

Murayama’s life and work will be remembered as a beacon of peace and accountability — principles that continue to guide nations toward understanding and unity.

His passing not only marks the end of a remarkable era in Japan’s political history but also serves as a reminder of the power of humility and reconciliation in leadership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to convey his wishes, stating, “Greetings on Eid-ul-Fitr. May this festival enhance the spirit of hope, harmony and kindness in our society. May there be joy and success in all your endeavours. Eid Mubarak!”

President Draupadi Murmu, in a special message, posted her greetings in Urdu, acknowledging the festival’s deep-rooted values of charity, kindness, and brotherhood. She stated, “On the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all fellow citizens, especially my Muslim brothers and sisters. This festival strengthens the spirit of brotherhood and conveys the message of empathy, goodwill, and charity. I pray that this festival brings peace, prosperity, and happiness to everyone’s life and nurtures the spirit of righteousness in all hearts.”

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing peace and brotherhood. He tweeted, “Greetings on Eid-ul-Fitr. May this festival bring happiness, peace and prosperity to all. Hope this day further strengthens the bonds of harmony and brotherhood all across society. Eid Mubarak!”

India’s Foreign Minister Dr. Subramaniam Jaishankar also extended his wishes, writing, “Warm greetings on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. May the festival further the spirit of peace, harmony and compassion. #EidMubarak”.

Eid-ul-Fitr, celebrated by millions across India, is a time of togetherness, generosity, and prayers for peace and prosperity. The warm wishes from the country’s leadership resonated with the spirit of the festival, reaffirming India’s rich cultural and religious diversity.

Privacy is a shield that guards your dreams.

In a world where oversharing has become the norm, maintaining privacy is a rare but powerful trait. While social media tempts us to broadcast our every move, the truth is that silence is a form of strength.

Protecting your personal life not only shields you from unnecessary drama but also empowers you in ways you never imagined.

The Less You Share, The More You Control

When you keep things to yourself, fewer people get involved in your business. This means fewer opinions, fewer judgments, and fewer obstacles.

Sharing your plans too soon can attract envy, criticism, or even sabotage. Instead, let your actions speak for themselves.

Freedom from Validation

The more private you are, the less you’ll feel the need to seek approval.

You’ll slowly stop caring about what people think of you, and that’s when you truly start living. The need for validation is a trap that limits growth—break free by learning to trust your judgment.

Not Everyone is Your Friend

It’s a harsh truth, but not everyone around you has good intentions.

The more you share, the more people have access to your vulnerabilities. Be selective about who you trust, and never assume that everyone deserves a front-row seat in your life.

Peace Over Popularity

A private life attracts peace. It keeps toxic energy at bay and minimizes unnecessary drama.

When you prioritize your well-being over the need to be seen or heard, you’ll discover an unmatched calmness.

Walking Alone Leads to Greater Success

Some paths in life are meant to be walked alone. The more you rely on yourself, the stronger you become.

When you work in silence, you eliminate distractions and stay focused on your personal goals.

Privacy is the Ultimate Flex

The real flex isn’t showing off—it’s keeping things private. There’s power in mystery.

When people don’t know everything about you, they can’t manipulate, criticize, or undermine your progress. Silence becomes your armor.

Deep Connections Over Superficial Friendships

Privacy teaches you independence while allowing you to form deeper, more meaningful relationships.

Instead of seeking attention from the masses, you’ll learn to build genuine connections with those who truly matter.

Learning to Be Alone Without Feeling Lonely

Everyone leaves at some point, whether by choice or circumstance. When you embrace solitude, you become comfortable with yourself.

Being alone doesn’t have to mean being lonely—it can be an opportunity for self-growth.

Silence is Protection

When you build in silence, no one knows what to attack. By keeping your plans and struggles to yourself, you prevent negativity from interfering with your progress.

Privacy is a shield that guards your dreams.

Less Talk, More Mystery

The less you talk about yourself, the more people will want to know. Curiosity is a powerful force.

When you stop oversharing, people start paying attention in a different way—on your terms.

People Value What You Offer, Not Who You Are

At the end of the day, most people care about what you can provide, not who you truly are. This is why maintaining boundaries is crucial.

Don’t let others drain you by giving too much of yourself.

No One Deserves an Explanation

You don’t owe anyone an explanation for how you live your life. Keep your choices private and move in silence.

The fewer people you have to justify yourself to, the freer you become.

Protect Your Energy

Not everyone deserves access to you. A private life filters out negativity and shields you from unwanted influences.

Guard your space, and you’ll naturally attract the right kind of energy.

Balance Between Solitude and Socializing

Living a private life doesn’t mean isolating yourself. It means knowing when to be alone and when to engage with others.

A strong sense of privacy allows you to choose your interactions wisely.

Final Thoughts

In an age of constant exposure, privacy is an underrated superpower. It grants you control, peace, and freedom.

The less you share, the more powerful you become. Move in silence, let your success make the noise, and protect your energy at all costs.

“Noticing Uncle Steven, I can’t help but admire his actions in front of and for a people of different faith,” Mustapha wrote.

He was stopped by Irfan Musthapa, who highlighted the incident on Facebook.

Mustapha said he sees the man every week at the Mosque doing the same thing.

“Braving the blazing sun, plus some haze today, on his bare feet atop heated concrete, soaking wet clothes, hundreds of curious stares, he squats from slipper to slipper, arranging them for easy retrieval after prayer,” Mustapha wrote.

When asked why he does it, Uncle Steven’s response was simple:

“Oh, looks neater.”

He says he tries to come every Friday and that he lives nearby.

Mustapha said that he was touched and inspired by Uncle Steven’s gesture.

He added: “Diversity transcends boundaries and Uncle Steven is testament of that.

“It’s the littlest of deeds that matter and I’m sure there’s something we can appreciate, honour and perhaps replicate from Uncle Steven, for each other…”

Here’s the original post:

Article first published on Ilmfeed.

Why are Indians on social media so hateful towards Pakistanis? I try to talk with them because I’m so fond of India.

The first-time Indian visitor to Pakistan is more likely to be struck by our similarities than differences. The dusty plains of rural Punjab are the same on both sides, complete with crop burning. Lahore looks no different from any major north Indian city. The old city, with its maze of by-lanes, motorcyclists grazing your elbow and little children narrowly avoiding falling into drains, will instantly remind you of Lucknow or Chandni Chowk. In nursing internecine jealousies — Lahore people think of Karachi as a city with little space and too much petty crime, while Karachi folks think Lahore doesn’t do food well — they aren’t unlike us, either.

This correspondent was part of a group of Indian journalists invited by the government of Pakistan to cover the opening of the Kartarpur pilgrimage corridor. The security detail was significant. Our Lahore hotel, located on MM Alam Road — named after a fighter pilot and hero of the 1965 war with India — was swarming with security personnel. Vehicles with armed men and blazing sirens escorted our bus. Unless you are used to it, this kind of security can be a bit unnerving. It can feel like attention is being drawn to you, the swirl of red and blue lights marking you out as a target.

Pakistan does security a little differently from India. Not for them the commandos in safari suits or plainclothes. It’s all assault weapons, aviators and army fatigue. The idea is to secure, but also to dissuade with the display of force. When you drive through the cities, the horrors of the past come alive. As we pulled into the Islamabad Marriot, which was bombed in 2009, a fellow journalist who was posted in the city at the time, reminisced about how the explosion had blown away all the trees on that street. Driving around Lahore, a friend pointed out the spot near the Gaddafi stadium where the bus carrying the Sri Lankan cricket team was attacked, also in 2009. Between all the visible security, the passing landmarks of terror and the somewhat serious-looking men hanging about that you suspect are intelligence operatives, you are periodically reminded that while everything seems absolutely normal and well, you are indeed in one of the world’s most dangerous countries.

Hardliners in Politics

The big domestic news of the week we were visiting was the crackdown on Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and its chief Khadim Hussain Rizvi, a preacher of the Barelvi sect who has attracted a massive following in recent years campaigning in favour of the country’s Blasphemy Law.

TLP enjoys massive street support and is able to bring entire cities to a standstill with its protests, sitins and street violence. But Pakistanis who happily come out on to the streets to support the call of some preacher or another don’t seem to like voting for them very much. Overall, the vote share of the religious-political parties declined in this year’s general election. Parties thought to have links with militant groups — the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jammat and Hafeez Sayeed’s Allah-o-Akbar Tehreek — failed to make a dent electorally. Rizvi’s TLP won only two seats despite fielding more than 150 candidates. But it has become Pakistan’s fifth largest party in vote share, within two years of founding.

Imran Khan has now slapped the preacher with charges of sedition and terrorism.

‘Why Do You Hate Us?’

It’s a bit of a cliché by now that Indian visitors to Pakistan experience great hospitality, discounts in shops and the warmth of ordinary Pakistanis. Every bit of this remains true and every Pakistani I spoke with said they longed for peace with India. But thanks to social media, some things might be changing.

At the lobby of the Marriot Hotel in Islamabad, I meet a group of three friends — fashion designer Mian Nauman and his friends Shabeeh Zehra and Neelum Nawaz.

All three had India connections. Nauman’s mother was born in Ludhiana. Zehra’s great grandmother was born in Delhi and married a Hindu. At the time of partition, the husband stayed back, and her great grandmother’s family moved to Pakistan, along with her and an infant child. Nawaz is a major Bollywood fan.

We discuss Imran Khan, local politics and India. Nauman says Khan is the first politician in a long time he is able to relate with. “I could not even understand Nawaz Sharif’s speeches. Imran speaks like regular people. He’s not a politician. And may be that’s a great thing,” he says.

When I try to ask Zehra a question, she asks gently if she could ask me a question first. “Why are Indians on social media so hateful towards Pakistanis? I try to talk with them because I’m so fond of India–my roots are from there. But they become so abusive when they know I’m from Pakistan,” she says, looking genuinely pained. I don’t have a good answer.

The group is joined by the person they were waiting for — an older, impeccably dressed lady named Ayesha Shamsi. When I introduce myself, she says she lived in Delhi for three years. How come? “Oh because my husband woke up one morning and decided he was gonna take a job as the ambassador to India,” she said, laughing. Her husband Saeed Mohammad al Shamsi is an emirati lawyer and diplomat who served as UAE’s ambassador to India between 2001 and 2004. She said she loved every moment of living in India and desired very deeply to see peace between the two nations.

In Lahore’s Gulberg II neighbourhood, I stop at a small shop to recharge my phone. I ask the small group inside and the shopkeeper what they thought of Imran Khan’s statement that there should be peace between India and Pakistan. After some murmurs, the group seemed to nominate the shopkeeper, Imran Niazi, to speak for them.

Niazi turns out to be something of a hardliner for peace between the two countries. “There should be no border. We are the same people,” he says, speaking eloquently about how great it would be for both countries should there be peace. But, he says, these days Muslims are being treated very badly in India. We watch those videos on Whatsapp. And that’s very unfortunate. But he also watched another video, he says, of people in India being offered money to burn the Pakistani flag. “One or two people did it, but you know, most people said no matter how much money you offer, we won’t burn the flag. That was really nice.”

Article first published on EconomicTimes.

Sruthijit KK is a former editor of HuffingtonPost India.