World leaders congratulate Saudi Arabia on its 2024 National Day anniversary

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of 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 of brotherly and friendly nations around the world on the occasion of its National Day. These messages reflect the Kingdom's prestigious international standing and the strong relations it enjoys with various countries worldwide.

Historical background of the founding day

Founding Day, observed annually on February 22nd, is a national occasion to celebrate the deep historical roots of the Saudi state. Established by royal decree in 2022, it commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727 CE, with its capital at Diriyah. This day aims to reinforce pride in the state's three-century history, which established a political entity that has brought unity, stability, and prosperity to the Arabian Peninsula. Founding Day differs from National Day, which celebrates the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932 CE, as the former focuses on the historical and cultural depth of the state since its inception.

The importance and impact of the event

Domestically, the celebration of Founding Day reinforces national identity, connects current generations with their ancestors' history, and highlights the nation's development and the sacrifices made along the way. Regionally and internationally, the outpouring of congratulatory messages underscores the Kingdom's pivotal role as a politically and economically influential power. It is a testament to the success of Saudi diplomacy in building bridges of friendship and cooperation with various countries around the world, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which seeks to solidify the Kingdom's position as the heart of the Arab and Islamic worlds and a global investment hub.

Regional and international congratulations

In this context, the Saudi leadership received congratulations from a number of world leaders, reflecting the depth of fraternal relations and strategic partnerships:

• State of Qatar: His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, congratulated the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani, the Deputy Emir, and His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, also sent similar congratulatory messages.
• Kingdom of Bahrain: His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain sent a congratulatory cable to his brother, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, praising the Kingdom's civilizational and developmental achievements that have strengthened its regional and international standing. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, also congratulated the Saudi leadership on this occasion.
• State of Palestine: His Excellency President Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine, congratulated the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Highness the Crown Prince, appreciating the Kingdom’s supportive stances towards the Palestinian people and their just cause.

These messages emphasize the strong historical ties, especially among the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and highlight the global appreciation for the comprehensive development and renaissance that the Kingdom is witnessing under its wise leadership.