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     Represented by the Center for Founding Research and National History, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University organized an academic lecture titled “Saudi–Russian Relations Over a Century" at the main hall of the College of Social Sciences. The event was attended by the Ambassador of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom, Prof. Akram Karim, the Vice Dean of the Deanship of Scientific Research for Center Affairs, Prof. Mohammed A. Al-Awwad, the Head of the Department of History and Civilization, Prof. Abdulmohsen M. Al-Rashoudi, and the Director of the Center for Founding Research and National History, Prof. Zuhair A. Al-Shahri.

     The lecture was delivered by the former Saudi Ambassador to the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Dhaher M. Al-Anazi, with the participation of the Director of the Saudi–Russian Relations Studies Center, Prof. Majed A. Al-Turki.

     During his presentation, Mr. Al-Anazi addressed several key historical milestones in the region, highlighting the role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in supporting Central Asian countries and noting the academic impact of Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University in those regions. He also recounted a historical account from the era of King Abdulaziz—may he rest in peace—when a number of scholars from Central Asia were invited to the Hijaz.

     Mr. Al-Anazi further reviewed several regional crises, including the Iran–Iraq War, which lasted eight years, and the Lebanese crisis, which extended over seventeen years, outlining the role played by King Fahd—may he rest in peace—in resolving them. He also addressed the invasion of Kuwait and its economic and political repercussions.

     He also discussed the period of the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the emergence of independent Central Asian states, noting their orientation toward Saudi Arabia for support despite economic challenges at the time. He highlighted the Kingdom's contributions to Kazakhstan, including the establishment of universities and healthcare facilities, notably a children's hospital supported by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz—may God preserve him.

     For his part, Prof. Al-Turki reviewed the development of Saudi–Russian relations, addressing the Russian presence in the region and the image of King Abdulaziz in Russian perception. He also discussed relations during the era of King Faisal—may he rest in peace—and the challenges associated with the Cold War, followed by the era of King Fahd, which witnessed the restoration of relations, and the efforts of King Abdullah—may he rest in peace—in revitalizing them. He concluded with the prosperous era of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz—may God preserve him—highlighting the ongoing advancement of bilateral relations and emphasizing the importance of understanding their historical and intellectual contexts.

     Prof. Al-Turki affirmed that Saudi–Russian relations represent a multi-dimensional future, given their continuous development across various fields.

     The lecture concluded with an open discussion session, where attendees engaged with questions and interventions.

     At the end of the event, the Director of the Center for Founding Research and National History, Prof. Zuhair A. Al-Shahri, honored the speakers, Mr. Al-Anazi and Prof. Al-Turki, in recognition of their participation and scholarly contributions.

     This lecture is part of the University's ongoing efforts to enhance academic awareness and support historical and political studies, reinforcing its knowledge-based role at both the local and international levels.​