Saudi- French celebrate National Day

(MENAFN- Arab News) Relations between France and Saudi Arabia are strong as both share the same fervent feelings against injustice in the world, according to French Consul General Louis Blin. Speaking at a function celebrating the French National Day at his residence on Sunday, Blin said that this not only goes for the people of France, but for all those who share and believe in the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity emanating from the French Revolution. The consul general and his wife, Nafisa Blin, welcomed the guest of honor Nabil Bukhari, director of protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Makkah Region, diplomats, dignitaries and guests on the occasion. "The Saudis and the French have a lot in common, as many Saudis go for tourism in France, and the consulate in Jeddah recently began granting visas of longer durations to Saudis," he said, adding that last year almost 49,000 pilgrims visited the Kingdom from France. "I encourage French residents in Saudi Arabia to explore this peaceful and wonderful country. Liaisons between France and Saudi Arabia can be enhanced. This was the goal of the French president's visit to the Kingdom last October," he said. He emphasized the mutual cooperation of Saudi and French businessmen. He said French companies have become the backbone of cooperation between the two countries. He said the cultural section is also supporting Saudi cultural and artistic activities. It recently organized a French cultural night with Francophone week with the participation of 23 countries.