We are human. We are pleased when others are pleased and we are sad when they are sad. The disaster of Sept. 11 has caused severe psychological, economic and social damages to the entire world. People in Saudi Arabia, the home of Islam, were very distressed and sorry for those who suffered in the attacks. I very much want to express my feelings and the feelings of my people here in Saudi Arabia about this terrible disaster and its consequent pain and damage. When I saw airplanes crashing into the twin towers and when I began to understand and analyze the action from social and religious points of view, I concluded at once that the acts were absolutely wrong. At the same time, I must say that I wish American politicians would use their minds more carefully and reconsider their decisions regarding the disaster rather than simply blaming Islam and the Islamic heritage.
For myself and on behalf of our children who studied and lived in the US, I express my condolences and sympathy to the American people and to everyone who suffered as a result of Sept. 11. We consider the victims of Sept. 11 as belonging to all nations. The disaster was a great pain and caused great suffering and it is an act condemned by all religions.
As a nation believing that human life is the most precious gift in our world, we understand the basic American reaction to the disaster. Nonetheless, responding to error with more error is fruitless, pointless and wrong. It can only produce further misunderstanding and suspicion. Wisdom and patience will produce fruitful ideas as well as practical and humane solutions through which your government will regain its democratic and humane philosophy.
I must say that the USA — as a country, as a nation, and as a lifestyle — is highly valued and appreciated. I myself studied there and was taught and helped by highly qualified professors. My children also studied there. All of us loved your country and your lifestyle. It is a simple and hospitable society — a society created by many people from many countries all over the world and it is what has made the US great.
Our relationship with the US began many years ago. We appreciate what the Americans have done for us and how they assisted us in exploring, refining and marketing our petroleum. Aramco — Saudi Aramco now — is an obvious example of the cooperation and the excellent relationships between the two nations. We are keen to maintain good relations and to remove the difficulties caused by Sept. 11. The initiatives undertaken by our government in this regard are honest and originate from mutual interests. Our religion, Islam, instructs us to maintain excellent social and political relationships with the world — and that includes the US. It is, however, an essential condition that we, our laws, religion and beliefs must also be respected.
We are a nation which is eager to have a good relationship with all nations. We want relationships based upon respect and understanding which are guided by Islamic instructions.
22 September 2002
