Saudi Arabia marked its 94th National Day with a grand celebration in Manila, highlighting the Kingdom’s transformative developments and strong diplomatic ties with the Philippines. The event, held on September 23, 2024, featured a keynote address by Ambassador Hisham S.A. Alqahtani, who emphasized the Kingdom’s achievements under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. The celebration underscored the enduring partnership between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, particularly in humanitarian efforts and economic cooperation.
Transformative Developments in Saudi Arabia
Ambassador Alqahtani’s address highlighted the significant progress Saudi Arabia has made in recent years. Under the visionary leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom has embarked on a series of ambitious projects aimed at diversifying its economy and enhancing its global standing. One of the key achievements is Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the World Expo 2030, positioning the nation as a burgeoning global tourism hub.
The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan has been instrumental in driving these developments. This comprehensive strategy focuses on reducing dependence on oil revenues, promoting sustainable development, and fostering innovation. Major projects such as NEOM, a futuristic city being built in the northwestern region, and the Red Sea Project, a luxury tourism destination, exemplify the transformative vision of the Saudi leadership. These initiatives are expected to create numerous job opportunities and attract significant foreign investment.
In addition to economic diversification, Saudi Arabia has made strides in social reforms. The Kingdom has implemented policies to enhance women’s rights, including allowing women to drive and increasing their participation in the workforce. These reforms are part of a broader effort to modernize Saudi society and improve the quality of life for its citizens. The National Day celebration in Manila served as a platform to showcase these achievements and reinforce the Kingdom’s commitment to progress and development.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties with the Philippines
The celebration of Saudi Arabia’s National Day in Manila also highlighted the strong diplomatic relations between the two countries. Ambassador Alqahtani reflected on the enduring partnership, particularly in humanitarian efforts. He cited the successful separation of conjoined twins in 2004 and June 2024 as examples of collaborative initiatives that have strengthened the bond between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.
The event was attended by prominent Filipino dignitaries, including Chief Justice Alexander Gizmondo and Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Eduardo José de Vega. Their presence underscored the importance of the bilateral relationship and the mutual respect between the two nations. The ambassador expressed optimism for continued progress in the Philippines under President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., and reiterated the theme of this year’s National Day: “We Dream, We Achieve.”
The significant Filipino presence in Saudi Arabia, with over one million Filipinos contributing to various sectors, was also acknowledged. These expatriates play a vital role in the Kingdom’s economy and cultural exchange. The celebration in Manila served as a reminder of the deep-rooted connections and the shared aspirations of both countries. It also provided an opportunity to explore new areas of cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and tourism.
Future Prospects and Collaborative Initiatives
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines are poised to further strengthen their partnership through various collaborative initiatives. The Kingdom’s aspiration to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, projected to be the largest tournament ever held in a single country, presents an opportunity for increased cooperation in sports and tourism. Such events can foster cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding between the two nations.
Economic cooperation remains a key focus, with both countries exploring opportunities for trade and investment. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan aligns with the Philippines’ development goals, creating a conducive environment for joint ventures and partnerships. The Kingdom’s investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology can provide valuable support for the Philippines’ economic growth and modernization efforts.
Humanitarian initiatives will continue to be a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. The successful medical collaborations, such as the separation of conjoined twins, demonstrate the potential for further cooperation in healthcare and social services. By working together, Saudi Arabia and the Philippines can address common challenges and improve the well-being of their citizens.
