By Abdulaziz Hammad

Saudi Gazette

DHAHRAN — The United States Consulate General here celebrated the 75th anniversary of the establishment of Saudi-US ties, commemorating the historic meeting between US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Kingdom’s founder King Abdulaziz Al Saud aboard the USS Quincy and the 244th American Independence Day as well, on Wednesday.

At the ceremony, Consul General Rachna Korhonen and her husband Juha Korhonen welcomed the Deputy Governor of the Eastern Province Dr. Khalid Al-Battal, and the Deputy Governor of Al-Khobar Abdullah Bin Ali Al Seef, as the guests of honor and to share in the celebration.

Although US Independence Day is July 4, the Consulate traditionally celebrates the occasion in the spring due to the pleasant weather this time of year.

The diplomatic ceremony was attended by several squads from the US Marines & Air Force to join celebration with the US and Saudi community members.

The ceremony showcased the beauty of American gastronomy and pop culture music where a musical band from the US Air Force played a variety of iconic American songs.

Consul General Korhonen said: “Seventy-five years ago, two great leaders met aboard the USS Quincy. President Franklin Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz met to chart the future of our bilateral ties. This first encounter between a US president and a Saudi King laid the foundation for the broad strategic partnership the United States and Saudi Arabia share today. Beyond partnership, President Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz forged a personal friendship that is at the heart of the strong ties our two countries share today."

"As the first woman to be Consul General here, it has been an exciting journey for me. I arrived to Dhahran in August 2017, to a country undergoing remarkable changes. Vision 2030 has opened new possibilities, tourism opportunities are growing, women are driving and attending sporting events. I have said this many times and it is still true: I have the best job in the best place at the best time...Ana Sharqawiah."

“Most of all, I want to say thank you to the amazing people of Sharqiya who remind me every day how warm, wonderful, welcoming, hospitable, and kind Saudis are. I have made friendships that I know are going to last me a lifetime. When I leave here this summer, I will certainly leave a piece of my heart here but I also plan to take a little piece of your heart with me."