Saudi weekly digest - June 2023

Since E2E took a small break last month, here is a brief recap of some of what happened last month.

Regarding politics,

Saudi Arabia actively seeks to enhance cooperation with the BRICS group, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This move is part of the kingdom's broader strategy to diversify its international partnerships.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia recently embarked on a significant official visit to France. The visit aimed to review and develop the historical and strategic relations between the two countries across various fields.

The royal families of Jordan and Saudi Arabia celebrated a historic wedding, marking a significant moment in the region's diplomatic landscape. The marriage between Prince Hussein, the Crown Prince of Jordan, and Princess Nora, the daughter of Saudi Arabia's King Salman, symbolises strengthening ties between the two nations.

In addition, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Saudi Arabia and there is still a lot of talk about the potential Saudi-Israeli normalisation.

On the topic of sports...

Football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed his decision to continue playing for Al-Nassr, expressing his belief in the potential growth of the Saudi League

…and…

Karim Benzema, a former player for Real Madrid, has agreed to a three-year contract with Al Ittihad football club in Saudi Arabia.

In addition to football, golf has also become a trending topic due to the LIV and PGA merger, which has sparked a lot of controversy.

And lastly

Saudi Arabia has signed a $5.6 billion deal with Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Human Horizons and the largest Hajj pilgrimage in history took place in Saudi Arabia, with the estimated participation of around 2 million Muslims. This year's event marked a return to pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.