JEDDAH, 1 November 2003 — Prince Sultan, second deputy premier and minister of defense and aviation, has denounced what he called a smear campaign against Islam and the Kingdom and said it was an outpouring of jealousy of its resources and Islam.

Prince Sultan made this comment while addressing senior military commanders who came to offer their Ramadan greetings on Thursday.

The defense minister underscored the unity and solidarity of the country’s military organizations including the National Guard and the armed forces.

“I would like to emphasize the total solidarity between the armed forces — from the National Guard to the land, naval and air defense forces and the security forces,” he said.

Prince Sultan hailed the efforts of the armed forces and security officers in defending the Kingdom and protecting its security. He also reminded them of their great responsibility.

“The Saudi leadership and people and the royal family have full confidence in the National Guard, the armed forces and security officers,” he said.

Prince Sultan urged Islamic scholars, businessmen, academics and others to work with the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Fahd and Crown Prince Abdullah, deputy premier and commander of the National Guard, in the service of the country.

He quoted Prince Abdullah as saying that the Saudi officials would always remain committed to the service of Islam and the country despite any difficulties they might face.

“Our country is based on four points. First, we will defend Islam at any cost. Second, we will do anything to serve our country. Third, we will stand firm and persevere, and fourth, we will work hard to achieve our objectives,” he said.

Prince Sultan urged Saudis to work hard for the development of the country.

“We want Saudis to know that their country is their responsibility,” he added.

Prince Sultan highlighted the great blessings bestowed by the Almighty Allah on the Saudi people, notably Islam. He reaffirmed the Kingdom’s adherence to the teachings of Islam, as well as its determination to give all possible support to Muslims throughout the world.

“We are neither terrorists nor parasites. We believe in Islam and in other revealed religions. We believe in the Torah and the Bible,” he said.

“As we believe in Moses and Jesus, so they (Jews and Christians) should also believe in our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the Holy Qur’an,” he said.

The function, which was held at the prince’s farm in Buwaibiyat, was attended by Prince Faisal ibn Saud ibn Muhammad, and Prince Faisal ibn Sultan, secretary-general of the Prince Sultan Charitable Foundation.