Your Excellency, to begin with, how significant is Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah’s visit to Tunisia at this time?
This visit reflects the depth of Saudi-Tunisian relations and embodies the Kingdom’s commitment, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, to supporting humanitarian and developmental efforts in brotherly countries. Dr. Al-Rabeeah’s presence, along with the accompanying delegation, comes within the framework of direct coordination with Tunisian authorities to strengthen cooperation in health and sustainable development fields.
What are the main highlights of the visit?
The visit focused on supporting humanitarian partnerships, particularly in the health sector, through initiatives launched by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief). Dr. Al-Rabeeah met with several senior Tunisian officials, including an audience with His Excellency President Kais Saied, where they discussed pioneering projects that reflect the Kingdom’s priority in supporting human development in Tunisia.
We understand that a new medical program will be launched tomorrow. Could you tell us more about it?
Yes, God willing, tomorrow will witness the inauguration of the “Hearing Saudi” program for cochlear implants for children with hearing impairments. The launch will take place at the Saudi Embassy and is one of the distinguished programs implemented by KSrelief in cooperation with the Tunisian Ministry of Health. This program is a profound humanitarian step that underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to alleviating the suffering of the most vulnerable groups, particularly children.
Could you shed more light on the program’s objectives?
The primary goal is to translate the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman—may God preserve them. The “Hearing” program aims to restore hope to children suffering from hearing disabilities by providing cochlear implants and auditory and language rehabilitation. This will positively impact their social and educational futures. More importantly, the program paves the way for broader medical cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.
How has the Tunisian side responded to this initiative?
There has been tremendous appreciation from the Tunisian side, from both government institutions and civil society. We have witnessed a genuine willingness to enhance this cooperation and to provide the necessary environment for the success and sustainability of the program.
Were any agreements signed during the visit?
An agreement was reached on a package of humanitarian and health initiatives, in addition to studying long-term agreements. These will be announced at the appropriate time once the technical procedures are completed. There are many objectives we are striving to achieve.
What message would you like to convey through these multiple initiatives?
Our message is clear: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is present with its humanity, brotherhood, and genuine partnership with Tunisia. What we are doing today is an extension of our leadership’s firm belief in playing a pioneering role in supporting humanity, wherever it may be, without discrimination.
Écrit par : Bassam Aouda:
Translation: Maha Amrawi — Arab Affairs
