Hala Waleed Juffali has become the first woman to assume the post of honorary consul in Saudi Arabia following her appointment to the position by Saint Lucia. The office of the honorary consul was opened in Jeddah as part of Saint Lucia's efforts to expand its diplomatic presence in the Middle East. Prior to assuming office, Juffali visited Saint Lucia and met with government officials and a host of personalities representing local authorities and organizations as well as governmental entities. She also became acquainted with the business sector and lifestyle of Saint Lucia. Upon obtaining the approval from Saudi authorities, Juffali started working at her office on Nov. 1. The office is preparing to hold a workshop with travel agencies and airlines operating in Saudi Arabia. Its activities also spans to opening investment opportunities and developing business. Saint Lucia is an island state in the Eastern Caribbean. After gaining its independence, the country strengthened its relations with the United Kingdom by entering the Commonwealth of Nations. Saint Lucia is a unique destination for wedding ceremonies and honeymoons. According to Condé Nast, a mass media company headquartered in New York, Saint Lucia features the best diving beaches in the world. The country is famous for its natural beauty where visitors can sense the history, enjoy the white sand, rainy forests and vibes of musical festivals, and experience the generous hospitality of its English-speaking people. Saint Lucia is interested in academia and scholarships. Two of its nationals received Nobel prizes, placing it among the top world countries. — SG
