The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrated its 96th National Day on September 23, 2026, in Conakry, Guinea. The event, organized by the Saudi Embassy in Guinea, took place at the Palais du Peuple, with several high-ranking Guinean and foreign officials in attendance. The celebration showcased the country's economic and social transformations, as well as its strong relations with Guinea. The event was a testament to the historical ties between the two nations.
The Saudi National Day holds significant importance, commemorating the unification of the Kingdom and the birth of the modern Saudi state under King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. The day symbolizes national unity, state consolidation, and the Kingdom's commitment to development while preserving its identity and heritage. The celebration in Conakry brought together the President of the Guinean National Assembly, government members, diplomatic representatives, and leaders of various socio-professional organizations.
Saudi Ambassador to Guinea, Dr. Fahad bin Eid Al-Rashidi, highlighted the country's progress under its Vision 2030 strategy, aimed at diversifying the economy, reducing dependence on oil, and promoting private sector growth. He noted that the strategy had led to tangible progress, including increased non-oil revenues and improved governance. The Ambassador also emphasized the positive impact of Vision 2030 on the labor market and private sector development.
The Ambassador cited several achievements, including a decrease in unemployment among Saudis, growth in the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises to the GDP, and increased participation of Saudi women in the workforce. He also mentioned that Saudi Arabia had become a hub for international events, hosting significant regional and global gatherings, such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Dr. Fahad bin Eid Al-Rashidi emphasized the historical and concrete cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Guinea, with the Saudi Embassy in Conakry being one of the oldest diplomatic missions in the country. He highlighted various development projects supported by Saudi Arabia in Guinea, including the rehabilitation of the Donka National Hospital, construction of vocational training institutions, and restoration of the King Faisal Mosque in Conakry.
The Guinean government expressed its appreciation for Saudi Arabia's support, with Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abdoulaye Youla, conveying warm congratulations to the Saudi people and government. He described the relations between Guinea and Saudi Arabia as fraternal, historical, and deeply rooted in shared values and solidarity.
Youla acknowledged the positive impact of Saudi Arabia's interventions in Guinea, particularly in infrastructure, water access, healthcare, and education. He also praised the warm welcome extended to Guinean pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, as well as other areas of cooperation between the two countries.
Key points
- Saudi Arabia and Guinea strengthen bilateral ties, with Saudi Arabia supporting various development projects in Guinea.
- The 96th National Day celebration in Conakry highlights Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 strategy and its positive impact on the economy and society.
- The event showcases the historical and concrete cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Guinea, with a focus on development and mutual benefit.
