JEDDAH — The US Consulate General in Jeddah celebrated the 247th anniversary of the United States’ independence on Wednesday. Consul General Faris Asad welcomed Mazen Al-Himali, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah Region Branch as the guest of honor along with many guests from throughout the western region. The theme of the event was “Block Party,” an American tradition in which people gather outdoors to enjoy music, food, and conversation with their local community. Since the original block parties in early 20th century New York until today, block parties have brought communities together in celebration of American diversity, creativity, and freedom. On February 15, the US Consulate General in Jeddah congregated with its Saudi friends to celebrate over eight decades of shared history and strong partnership. Consul General Faris Asad, said on the US-Saudi relationship: “Saudi Arabia’s creative economy especially here in the west is flourishing. Today we see investment in the arts, culture, and entertainment at the forefront of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals. The United States supports Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning creative ecosystem with programs to bolster emerging talent and help young Saudi voices create content grounded in shared values like women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, and entrepreneurship.” — SG