Syeda Amtul
Saudi Gazette
JEDDAH — To mark the upcoming 240th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, the US Consulate General in Jeddah held a reception on its premises on Monday.
The event was hosted by Ambassador Joseph W. Westphal, his wife Linda Westphal, Consul General Todd C. Holmstrom and his wife Alexandra Holmstrom.
Westphal presided over the event, which was attended by a gathering of approximately 500 guests.
[caption id="attachment_35917" align="alignleft" width="300"]
Students of American international school presenting the national anthem. — SG photo by Syeda Amtul[/caption]
The guest of honor was Mohammad Ahmad Tayeb, director general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah branch, who is also the Kingdom's permanent representative to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
The event followed an American state fair theme, which offered an opportunity to experience a celebration of US culture, commerce and cuisine. State fairs are held annually throughout the United States, highlighting unique aspects of each state, hosting friendly competitions, and offering a variety of entertainment.
Ambassador Westphal told the crowd in his welcoming remarks: “Tonight we present to you a slice of Americana — the state fair. It represents the diversity and the heritage of our country.
"The state fair idea is something that we chose because it reflects America’s heritage and diversity. We are a young nation, we were primarily an agricultural nation, and so state fair promotes agriculture.”
Westphal thanked to all attendees and wished them a long life and blessings of liberty.
Ambassador Tayeb extended his warmest greetings to Americans in general and especially those who live "with us in Saudi Arabia to whom we are grateful for their valuable contributions to my country’s progress and development."
He shed light on the strong relations between two countries, saying: “Saudi and American relations have been strongly cultivated for over seven decades and are solidly based on mutual respect, common interest and shared human values.
"Our two countries are constantly collaborating to provide all that is necessary for the benefit of both Saudi and American peoples and to achieve security, prosperity and stability in the world and particularly in this region."
The event’s state fair theme provided guests with a sample of the unique cultural heritage of USA. Various booths highlighted typical activities and foods one might encounter at an American state fair.
The events also included art exhibitions, and live entertainment featuring the Chicago-based bluegrass band The Henhouse Prowlers.
