Saudi Arabia, Russia mark 100 years of diplomatic ties with historical photo exhibition in Moscow

MOSCOW —The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), organized an exhibition of historical photographs in Moscow on Monday. This marked 100 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia. Diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia date back to February 1926.The event was hosted at the ministry headquarters in the presence of Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Borisenko Georgy Evgenievich and Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation Sami Al-Sadhan.In a speech on the occasion, Ambassador Al-Sadhan underlined the importance of the exhibition in showcasing key milestones in the history of relations between the two countries through a collection of historical photographs and documents.“The exhibition, featuring carefully selected historical photographs and documents, serves to revive a historical memory filled with achievements, initiatives, and strategic partnerships between two pivotal states that hold significant weight and standing on the international stage,” Al-Sadhan said.The Saudi envoy said that the Kingdom and Russia are commemorating the centenary of their diplomatic relations this year through a series of celebrations and events across various fields, most notably in the economic, cultural, tourism, and sports sectors.The Saudi-Russian relations are witnessing rapid growth across various sectors, Al-Sadhan said. “This turns the centenary into a unique occasion to revive a diplomatic legacy rich in ambitious projects and pave the way for a new phase of strategic partnership,” the ambassador said, wishing continued progress and prosperity for the two countries and their peoples.During the event, the Russian deputy foreign minister highlighted the growing momentum in air travel between the two countries, noting that Russian flights to Saudi Arabia increased by 42 percent in 2025, while Saudi flights to Russia rose by more than 35 percent.Evgenievich noted that the mutual visa exemption agreement for Saudi and Russian citizens will come into effect on May 11, stressing that joint efforts have made relations between Moscow and Riyadh more constructive and diversified.