RIYADH: The second season of the Ministry of Media's Global Harmony initiative commenced on Sunday, featuring India as its inaugural country at Al-Suwaidi Park in southern Riyadh.

This annual celebration aims to foster cultural understanding and unity among residents in Saudi Arabia.

The event is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Media, the General Entertainment Authority, and runs until Dec. 20, showcasing musical and dance performances representing various cultures.

Among these, India's cultural festival will span 10 days, highlighting traditional arts, cuisine, and crafts through demonstrations and interactive exhibits.

Suhel Ajaz Khan, India's ambassador to Saudi Arabia, expressed optimism regarding the event's success following the first edition in 2024.

He stated that this year's festivities promise a broader display of Indian culture with more artists participating, aimed at strengthening bilateral relationships through shared experiences.

Other featured nations and regions in the Global Harmony initiative include Bangladesh (Nov. 11-14), Egypt (Nov. 15-17), the Levant (Nov. 18-20), Yemen (Nov. 21-28), Pakistan (Nov. 29-Dec. 1), Indonesia (Dec. 2-4), the Philippines (Dec. 5-8), Uganda (Dec. 9-10), Ethiopia (Dec. 11-13), and Sudan (Dec. 14-20).

Launched in October 2024, the Global Harmony initiative seeks to celebrate the cultural diversity among Saudi residents, promoting unity and understanding through shared experiences.

The inaugural season highlighted cultures from Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Yemen, Syria, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, the Philippines, and Bangladesh.