WASHINGTON: The United States has extended its congratulations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of its National Day.
In a statement issued Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said: “On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership, and its people on the occasion of the 96th National Day, commemorating the unification of the Kingdom under the leadership of King Abdulaziz Al Saud. On this proud day, we celebrate the generosity and the ambition of the Saudi people.”
Strengthening the strategic partnership
“Over the past year, the United States and Saudi Arabia have taken historic steps to deepen our strategic partnership,” Rubio said.
He added that US President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud had finalised landmark agreements to expand Saudi investment in the United States, civil nuclear cooperation and defence ties between the two countries. He said the agreements reflected their shared commitment to regional security and stability.

Future of peace
“Today, we celebrate Saudi Arabia’s heritage and identity, and we look forward to a future of peace and prosperity for both of our nations,” Rubio concluded.
Saudi Arabia celebrated its 96th National Day on Wednesday, marking the anniversary of the unification of the Kingdom under the leadership of its founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.
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The national occasion was observed across the Kingdom with cultural, entertainment, sporting, and community events, highlighting Saudi heritage and national identity.
This year’s National Day is being held under the slogan “Our Pride Lies in Our Nature” expressing national pride and belonging and drawing on values associated with Saudi identity, including authenticity, courage, generosity, and ambition.
