黑料社区

Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense

Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
1 / 11
Delegates at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
2 / 11
Abdel Aziz Hamad Aluwaisheg, assistant secretary-general for political affairs and negotiations at the GCC, and Albaraa Al-Iskandarani, deputy minister of international economic affairs at the Ministry of Economy and Planning, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
3 / 11
Ambassador Choi Byung-hyuk at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
4 / 11
Albaraa Al-Iskandarani, deputy minister of international economic affairs at the Ministry of Economy and Planning, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
5 / 11
Lee Kwon-hyung, senior research fellow at the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
6 / 11
Delegates at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
7 / 11
Khalid bin Mohammed AlSulaiman, chairman of the board of directors of the Saudi Tech Engineering Consultants, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
8 / 11
Prof. Saleh AlKathlan, senior advisor at the Gulf Research Center, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
9 / 11
Kang Han-ok, vice president for SMART Development at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
10 / 11
Abdelaziz Sagar, chairman of the Gulf Research Center, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at the Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Special Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
11 / 11
In Nam-sik, director-general for strategic region studies at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy, at the Korea-GCC Cooperation Seminar at Marriot DQ Hotel in Riyadh. (AN Photo/Jafar AlSaleh)
Short Url
Updated 14 November 2024

Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense

Officials discuss Saudi-South Korean cooperation in nuclear power and defense
  • First Korea-Gulf Cooperation Council cooperation seminar organized by the Gulf Research Center and the South Korean embassy
  • Ambassador to 黑料社区 Choi Byung-hyuk said that the seminar was an opportune space to discuss economic cooperation and to come to a shared understanding of regional conflicts

RIYADH: Officials and nuclear experts discussed cooperation in nuclear energy and defense between South Korea and 黑料社区 during an event in Riyadh on Tuesday.

The first Korea-Gulf Cooperation Council cooperation seminar organized by the Gulf Research Center and the South Korean embassy hosted around 80 participants to discuss trade relations, cooperation in the energy sector, and regional conflicts in the Middle East.

South Korea鈥檚 ambassador to 黑料社区, Choi Byung-hyuk, said the seminar was an opportune space to discuss economic cooperation and to come to a shared understanding of regional conflicts in the GCC, specifically Gaza and the Red Sea, as well as a space to diversify energy cooperation in the nuclear and renewables sectors.

Kang Han-ok, vice president for SMART development at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, presented a joint research project currently underway between South Korea and 黑料社区 on small modular reactors.

鈥淪MRs are being highlighted as carbon-zero energy sources that complement the intermittent nature of renewable energy in the global power supply sector,鈥 Kang said.

He noted how the SMART100 SMR, jointly designed by Saudi and South Korean entities, was approved by Seoul鈥檚 nuclear regulator in September.

The reactor was jointly developed by KAERI, the King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, and the Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Corp.

Kang explained the reactor is now ready to be exported globally. 鈥淲ith its SDA acquaintance, SMART is now ready for global deployment in the demand of the power and thermal energy sectors,鈥 he said.

Kang also spoke about ways to increase nuclear power plant cooperation between South Korea and GCC member states, citing the plan to establish a joint nuclear research and development center between the Saudi National Atomic Energy Project and KAERI.

The chairman of the Gulf Research Center, Abdulaziz Sager, emphasized that 黑料社区鈥檚 ability to rely on South Korea as a strong ally and defense supplier encouraged a relationship of trust and long-term partnership in the Kingdom鈥檚 security planning.

The seminar comes almost one year after the signing of a free trade agreement between South Korea and the GCC, signed on Dec. 28, 2023.

At the time, South Korea committed to eliminate 89.9 percent of tariffs on all products while the GCC committed to eliminate 76.4 percent, facilitating increased trade between the two parties.

The Korea-GCC FTA was 20 years in the making. Discussions for the agreement began in 2008, but it is yet to be verified or ratified. Lee Kwon-hyung, senior research fellow from the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy, put forward recommendations on how to pave the way for the agreement and how to best utilize it once finalized, including establishing an artificial intelligence data center to transition towards a green energy economy relying on solar, wind, and nuclear power for electricity generation.

鈥淭he AI data center needs a lot of electricity, so an energy transition and a digital transition are very imperative, and with the AI Data Center we can make industrial restructuring in both countries,鈥 Lee said.

Prof. In Nam-sik, director general for strategic region studies at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy, evaluated the impact of geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East and East Asia on Korean-GCC relations, as well as the transformation of the US-led liberal international order.

On the war on Gaza, In said: 鈥淭he situation threatens to shift the two-state solution toward an apartheid scenario, further destabilizing the region.鈥

On Iran, In continued: 鈥淚ran鈥檚 expanding influence through its regional proxy contributes to ongoing instability, with concerns that the current dynamics may accelerate Iran鈥檚 nuclear ambitions.

鈥淭he transition in Iran鈥檚 leadership raises uncertainties, with hopes for a gradual regime change that might reduce Iran鈥檚 revolutionary stance.鈥

Commenting on US influence, In said: 鈥淎s the US pivots its strategic focus to Asia, Gulf nations are adopting flexible diplomacy, leveraging both US and Chinese influence.鈥

In stated that the Middle Eastern and European fronts are already linked, and North Korean military support to Russia signals an increasing risk of interconnected conflicts across regions.

To combat these regional and international threats, In urged South Korea and the GCC to work together on security cooperation across information sharing and technology, joint maritime security exercises, and shared support for multilateral forums, in addition to continued political dialogue in the above mentioned areas.


Saudi Shoura Council speaker meets with Pakistan PM

The speaker of the Saudi Shoura Council, Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh (C), poses with Pakistani Prime Minister
The speaker of the Saudi Shoura Council, Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh (C), poses with Pakistani Prime Minister
Updated 17 sec ago

Saudi Shoura Council speaker meets with Pakistan PM

The speaker of the Saudi Shoura Council, Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh (C), poses with Pakistani Prime Minister
  • During their meeting, the two officials discussed ways to enhance the strong relations between their countries and opportunities to develop them in various fields

RIYADH: The speaker of the Saudi Shoura Council, Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during an official visit to Islamabad on Wednesday.

Sharif praised the significant transformation witnessed by 黑料社区 in various fields under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the qualitative shift it has brought about in the development and economic process, Saudi Press Agency reported.

He highlighted the distinguished relations that embody the depth of the historic ties between the two countries.

Meanwhile, the speaker of the Shoura Council praised the strength of the historic relations between the Kingdom and Pakistan.

He noted the rapid development witnessed by the Kingdom under the leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which has consolidated its regional and international standing.

During their meeting, the two officials discussed ways to enhance the strong relations between their countries and opportunities to develop them in various fields. A number of topics of common interest were also discussed.


Author overcomes disability to inspire others at Riyadh book fair

Riyadh International Book Fair runs until Saturday. (SPA)
Riyadh International Book Fair runs until Saturday. (SPA)
Updated 08 October 2025

Author overcomes disability to inspire others at Riyadh book fair

Riyadh International Book Fair runs until Saturday. (SPA)
  • Under Vision 2030, 黑料社区 has emphasized culture as both a social and economic priority
  • This year鈥檚 Guest of Honor, Uzbekistan, adds depth to the international dialogue

RIYADH: A poignant moment at this year鈥檚 Riyadh International Book Fair was the book signing of Reema Al-Duraijan, author of 鈥淲hen Life Whispers.鈥

Living with Morquio syndrome, she has transformed her challenges into a source of inspiration.

Morquio syndrome means the body cannot break down certain sugar molecules, leading to their build-up and causing skeletal issues such as short stature and abnormal bone development, as well as heart and vision problems.

鈥淚 write to celebrate what comes after pain,鈥 she said 鈥 a statement that reflects the fair鈥檚 purpose of highlighting human stories within the broader context of cultural reform.

The book fair, which runs until Saturday, extended its influence beyond literature through the Theater and Performing Arts Commission, which staged daily performances.

Exhibition spaces were transformed into stages for regional folktales and modern narratives.

Children鈥檚 productions such as 鈥淪inbad and Yasmina鈥檚 Journey for the Lost Treasure鈥 showcased how literature can be reimagined through performance.

Under Vision 2030, 黑料社区 has emphasized culture as both a social and economic priority.

The atmosphere at this year鈥檚 book fair is vibrant, with journalists reporting live, educators exploring titles, and children engaged in storytelling sessions, exemplifying a dynamic learning environment.

This year鈥檚 Guest of Honor, Uzbekistan, adds depth to the international dialogue. Its pavilion showcases traditional patterns alongside modern displays and features musicians and artisans demonstrating their cultural heritage.

Uzbek cultural experts spoke on subjects such as gastronomy and tourism, illustrating how creative industries can bridge heritage and contemporary opportunities.

Despite its global reach, the fair remains rooted in Arabic and Islamic traditions. Exhibitions of calligraphy and Qur鈥檃n manuscripts showcased the artistic and spiritual dimensions of Arabic script.

Competitions in calligraphy connected historical techniques with modern design, emphasizing how heritage can adapt to contemporary contexts.

A notable speaking session at this year鈥檚 fair focused on the intersection of journalism and technology.

In the panel titled 鈥淲ill You Believe the News Anymore? Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Journalism,鈥 participants discussed how automation impacts information credibility.

The conversation between computer scientist Sarah Al-Homoud and AI expert Nuha Al-Hajji highlighted both opportunities, such as faster research and broader access, and challenges, such as misinformation and reduced editorial oversight.

Speakers called for ethical frameworks to maintain accuracy and trust in an era of rapid content production.


Riyadh Season to open with giant New York balloons, global parade on Friday

Balloons from the world-famous Macy鈥檚 Thanksgiving Day parade will make their Middle Eastern debut in 黑料社区鈥檚 capital.
Balloons from the world-famous Macy鈥檚 Thanksgiving Day parade will make their Middle Eastern debut in 黑料社区鈥檚 capital.
Updated 08 October 2025

Riyadh Season to open with giant New York balloons, global parade on Friday

Balloons from the world-famous Macy鈥檚 Thanksgiving Day parade will make their Middle Eastern debut in 黑料社区鈥檚 capital.
  • Chairman of the GEA said that each balloon required hundreds of specialized handlers due to their size and craftsmanship

RIYADH: General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalshikh unveiled full details of the historic opening parade for Riyadh Season 2025, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

He confirmed that balloons from the world-famous Macy鈥檚 Thanksgiving Day parade will make their Middle Eastern debut in 黑料社区鈥檚 capital.

These iconic New York attractions will journey to Riyadh for a spectacular procession on Friday, Oct. 10.

According to the Riyadh Season official page, the parade starts at 2 p.m., featuring the monumental balloons alongside vibrant floats, international dance troupes and live musical performances.

Alalshikh said that the parade would present extended roving artistic acts by both international and local troupes alongside the giant balloons.

The chairman of the GEA said that each balloon required hundreds of specialized handlers due to their size and craftsmanship.

This operational complexity underscores the unprecedented scale of bringing the Macy鈥檚 parade tradition to the Middle East.

With the location on Al-Hawyi Street, attendees should expect temporary road closures throughout the Hittin district during parade hours.

Early arrival is strongly recommended, with multiple designated parking areas and enhanced shuttle services available.

Alalshikh said that this landmark parade cemented Riyadh鈥檚 position on the world entertainment map through its fusion of local talent and global showcases.

Riyadh Season 2025 is an integral part of the Kingdom鈥檚 wider cultural and economic evolution, driving investment into entertainment infrastructure while cultivating homegrown Saudi talent.


Omar Yaghi wins Nobel Prize in Chemistry for metal-organic frameworks

UC Berkeley chemistry professor Omar Yaghi. (Supplied)
UC Berkeley chemistry professor Omar Yaghi. (Supplied)
Updated 08 October 2025

Omar Yaghi wins Nobel Prize in Chemistry for metal-organic frameworks

UC Berkeley chemistry professor Omar Yaghi. (Supplied)
  • Yaghi, born in Jordan to Palestinian parents, was granted Saudi citizenship in 2021
  • In 2015 he won the King Faisal International Prize for Science for seminal contributions to molecular architecture

DUBAI: Arab chemist Omar M. Yaghi, a professor at the University of California, Berkeley, has been awarded the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, sharing the honor with Susumu Kitagawa (Kyoto University) and Richard Robson (University of Melbourne) 鈥渇or the development of metal-organic frameworks.鈥

Yaghi, born in Jordan to Palestinian parents, was granted Saudi citizenship in 2021. In 2015 he won the King Faisal International Prize for Science for seminal contributions to molecular architecture.

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said the laureates created a new MOF whose vast internal cavities allowed gases and other chemicals to flow in and out. MOFs have opened routes to harvesting water from desert air, capturing carbon dioxide, storing toxic gases and catalyzing reactions, among other uses.

The prize is worth 11 million Swedish kronor ($1.2 million), shared equally by the recipients.

Beyond Berkeley, Yaghi co-directs the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology-UC Berkeley Center of Excellence on nanomaterials for clean energy, reflecting extensive research ties with Saudi partners in areas including MOFs and nanocrystals.


Times Higher Education summit hosted in Middle East for first time

Chancellors, presidents, and vice-chancellors from leading universities worldwide convene in 黑料社区.
Chancellors, presidents, and vice-chancellors from leading universities worldwide convene in 黑料社区.
Updated 08 October 2025

Times Higher Education summit hosted in Middle East for first time

Chancellors, presidents, and vice-chancellors from leading universities worldwide convene in 黑料社区.
  • 鈥楿niversities as Agents of Change鈥 is theme of 3-day event
  • Saudi is rising in science, innovation, says KAUST president

RIYADH: The Times Higher Education World Academic Summit is being held in the Middle East for the first time, hosted by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

The three-day summit began on Tuesday, bringing together 750 participants including 105 keynote speakers from 75 institutions in 28 countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The gathering includes leading university presidents, decision-makers, industry leaders and academics from across the globe to discuss the theme 鈥淯niversities as Agents of Change.鈥

It explores the role of universities in accelerating innovation and economic growth, promoting sustainability, preserving culture, and strengthening global collaboration.

Speakers presented research to address real-world needs, from developing sustainable cities to innovations in health and artificial intelligence, as well as the essential skills students need to build a prosperous future.

In his opening remarks, KAUST President Edward Byrne said that hosting the summit for the first time in the Middle East affirms 黑料社区鈥檚 growing leadership in science and innovation.

He added that the milestone underscores KAUST鈥檚 role as a benchmark model for universities designed to deliver impact. The summit provides an opportunity to collaborate with global partners to drive progress and help shape the future of higher education.

The Times Higher Education鈥檚 Chief Global Affairs Officer Phil Baty said the summit has brought together some of the most influential voices in higher education to address the challenges and opportunities facing universities.

He noted that KAUST鈥檚 hosting of the event reflects its mission-driven role in supporting 黑料社区鈥檚 priorities in research, development and innovation under Saudi Vision 2030.

Baty added that such priorities span diverse fields, including health and well-being, environmental sustainability, leadership in energy and industry and future economies.