JEDDAH/TAIF, 21 September 2006 — The unification of Saudi Arabia by King Abdul Aziz was the most successful experience in the Arab world in modern history, Asir Governor Prince Khaled Al-Faisal said yesterday.
Addressing a group of students who came to greet him on the occasion of National Day, he said: “The historic occasion reminds me about that legendary and miraculous incident that happened in the Arabian Peninsula.”
“It is the largest unification effort in 20th century in the Arab and Islamic world,” the Saudi Press Agency quoted Prince Khaled as saying.
While commending the efforts made by forefathers to build the Kingdom, he urged the students to make their contributions to take Saudi Arabia to the levels of advanced countries. “When many countries in the world go through economic and political turmoil and crises, Saudi Arabia enjoys security, peace and stability as well as economic progress,” he said. He emphasized the significance of patriotism for the development of any country.
Schools and directorates of education across the Kingdom have planned special programs on the occasion.
Jeddah’s Effat College for women celebrated National Day yesterday because the school will be closed on Saturday. Princess Lolwah Al-Faisal, vice dean of the board of trustees and general supervisor of the college, spoke about some of the achievements after the Kingdom’s unification.
The ceremony that took place at the college’s hall started with a speech by Princess Noura Al-Faisal on behalf of Princess Lolwah. She discussed the attention the Kingdom’s leaders have given to women’s issues.
Students and teachers of King Faisal Primary School in Taif yesterday celebrated the event with a variety of cultural activities. Small children came wearing colorful traditional dresses and holding Saudi flags and pictures of the king and the crown prince.
Saudi embassies around the world also marked National Day by holding receptions and different cultural programs. — Additional input by Lulwa Shalhoub
