World leaders congratulate Saudi Arabia on the anniversary of its founding day 1727 AD
As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates its National Day, the Saudi leadership, represented by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Prime Minister, is receiving congratulatory messages from leaders, kings, and heads of state of brotherly and friendly nations around the world. These greetings reflect the Kingdom's prestigious international standing and the depth of its diplomatic relations on both the regional and global stages.
Historical background and deep roots
Founding Day, observed annually on February 22nd, is a national occasion to celebrate the deep-rooted history of the Saudi state. Established by royal decree in 2022 as an official holiday, it commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 CE, when he established Diriyah as its capital. This occasion not only celebrates a political event but also the establishment of an entity that brought unity, stability, and prosperity to the Arabian Peninsula after centuries of fragmentation. It laid the foundations for a state whose constitution is derived from the Holy Quran and the Sunnah (Prophetic traditions), reflecting the Kingdom's profound historical and cultural heritage spanning three centuries.
Regional importance and fraternal significance
The congratulations from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries stand out in particular, reflecting the depth of fraternal ties, shared history, and common destiny. His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, and His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, sent congratulatory messages to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. Messages of congratulations also included those from His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, Deputy Emir of the State of Qatar; His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar; and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain. These messages are not merely diplomatic protocol, but rather a reaffirmation of the strength and integration of Gulf relations across various fields.
International influence and global standing
Internationally, congratulatory messages from around the world underscore the pivotal role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a politically and economically influential power. The Kingdom is not only a major player in global energy markets, but also the heart of the Islamic world, home to the Two Holy Mosques, and an active member of the G20. The world's celebration of its founding day reflects the international community's appreciation for the Kingdom's developmental and civilizational progress, particularly in light of the major transformations it is undergoing through Saudi Vision 2030, which has strengthened its position as a global destination for investment, culture, and tourism.
