DQ Living

The Italian Ambassador, H.E. Carlo Baldocci, launched a new series of events, “Sala Roma Talks”, bringing together the voices and aspirations of Italians and Saudis. Among those whose voices were celebrated in the series was Dr. Mona Khazindar on the occasion of her being awarded the “Ordine della Stella d'Italia” (Order of the Star of Italy).

Over the past 30 years, Dr. Mona Khazindar has curated numerous successful international exhibitions and made a significant contribution to the development of Saudi-Italian cultural diplomacy through projects ranging from biennials and book writing to design museums, to name just a few. Following the awards ceremony, Dr. Mona shared her thoughts on art, culture, the role of museums, and society's vision for the arts. One of the highlights was her reflection on the role of art and culture in Saudi Vision 2030 and Italy.

“Culture and art are crucial, especially given that our economy is striving to be less dependent on oil. Our leadership is very conscious about the importance of art and culture, so it invests in this area and collaborates with the right partners. By the right partners, I mean Italy, because Italy is a country of heritage, culture, art, fashion, and so on. And Saudi Arabia is collaborating with Italy to elevate all aspects of culture, not just museums but also, for example, archaeology.”

And, thus, another evening at “Sala Roma Talks”, filled with the wisdom and reflections of Dr. Mona Khazindar, turned into a celebration of art and culture as a driving force in the past, present, and future of the history of both countries, and a source of inspiration for Saudis, Italians and international attendees.

Written by Alexander Woodman

The Ambassador of Norway to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H.E. Kjersti Tromsdal, hosted a warm farewell gathering in honor of Mrs. Monika Thowsen, Deputy Head of Mission at the Royal Norwegian Embassy, marking the end of her three-and-a-half-year tenure in the Kingdom. The luncheon brought together diplomats, friends, and members of the diplomatic community whom Monika had grown close to during her years in Riyadh.

In her welcoming remarks, Ambassador Tromsdal shared a personal reflection on organizing the gathering. “When I asked Monika if she would like to have a farewell lunch and whom she would like to invite, she simply said, ‘I would like to invite the nice people I have enjoyed spending time with.’ And so, here we are today,” she said. Ambassador Tromsdal expressed her gratitude to the guests for joining the embassy team in bidding farewell to Monika and wished her and her husband every success and happiness in the next chapter of their lives.

In an emotional address, Monika Thowsen reflected on her memorable years in Saudi Arabia and the friendships she had built along the way. “This is not a business lunch, although we met through professional connections,” she said. “It is a friendly meal to express how much I have appreciated the moments spent with all of you - whether in meetings, receptions, or simply in social life.”

She added that the invited guests were people who had “walked into her heart,” emphasizing that kindness, warmth, and genuine human connection had defined her experience in the Kingdom. “I truly believe that when you share a smile, you receive a smile back,” she noted warmly.

The farewell gathering once again reflected the unique spirit of Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, where titles and positions become secondary to friendship and human connection. Inside the DQ, it does not matter in what capacity one serves; it is a place where the world becomes one community. And even when diplomats move on to new assignments, they leave carrying exceptional memories and lifelong friendships that continue far beyond borders.

Written by Alexander Woodman