Glowing tributes pour in for Prince Saud

RIYADH: World leaders joined Saudi Arabia on Friday in mourning the demise of the world's longest serving foreign minister, Prince Saud Al-Faisal, who passed away on Thursday in Los Angeles.
The US said Prince Saud would be greatly missed for his wisdom to restore peace and order in the region. President Barack Obama said in a statement: “Generations of American leaders and diplomats benefited from Prince Saud’s thoughtful perspective, charisma and poise, and will remember his diplomatic skill.”
Obama added: “He was committed to the importance of the US-Saudi relationship and the pursuit of stability and security in the Middle East and beyond, and his legacy will be remembered around the world.”
The OIC expressed deep sorrow and grief, saying Prince Saud dedicated a lifetime to serving his country and Arab and Islamic causes. Secretary-General Iyad Madani said: “Prince Saud was the flagship of Saudi diplomacy and was always at the front line defending and promoting Arab and Muslim interests ... the world will remember Prince Saud Al-Faisal as a leader who fought for the principles of his country, Arab and Muslim convictions, peace, stability, understanding and tolerance.
The GCC said the bloc will always remember the historic role of Prince Saud in addition to his sincere efforts toward the Gulf, Arab and Islamic issues.
Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Elaraby offered his “heartfelt condolences” to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, the royal family, including Prince Saud's family, and to the people of Saudi Arabia.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain and Premier Nawaz Sharif, Lebanon's Prime Minister Tamam Salam and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed their deep sorrow over the loss.