DHAHRAN, 8 February 2004 — Saudi Arabia will not allow any foreign power to interfere in its internal or political, educational and economic affairs, Prince Abdul Rahman, deputy minister of defense and aviation, stated yesterday.
Addressing armed forces personnel at King Fahd Military City here, the minister said Saudi forces must be ready to face any eventuality.
Prince Abdul Rahman is on an inspection tour of the Eastern Province to convey Eid greetings from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd and Crown Prince Abdullah, deputy premier and commander of the National Guard, to the armed forces stationed in the region.
He commended their efforts in defending the Kingdom. “All Saudi citizens are proud of your committed service,” he told them. He said the government would do everything to meet the needs of the armed forces. “There is no barrier between you and us,” he added.
The minister highlighted the progress made by the Kingdom’s various sectors and stressed the need for more spending within the Kingdom.
Speaking later at King Abdul Aziz Airbase in the province, the prince said that the development of the Saudi armed forces with its advanced training and modern weaponry was the envy of many other countries.
New Assistant Director of Intelligence
Prince Abdul Aziz ibn Bandar has been appointed assistant to the director of intelligence. King Fahd made the appointment on recommendation of Crown Prince Abdullah, SPA reported.
