JEDDAH, 23 September 2003 — Crown Prince Abdullah, deputy premier and commander of the National Guard, yesterday urged Saudis to stand united in the face of what he called “dangerous” problems and work hard for the country’s progress and prosperity.
“We have to dedicate ourselves to strengthening this nation in the face of dangerous challenges,” he told the weekly Cabinet meeting.
On behalf of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd, Prince Abdullah sent his good wishes to the Saudi people for the country’s 73rd National Day today to mark the unification of the Kingdom at the hands of King Abdul Aziz.
In his National Day statement, the crown prince also urged Saudis to strengthen national unity and solidarity to achieve greater progress and prosperity and consolidate the country’s security and stability.
“This day commemorates the tremendous achievements of King Abdul Aziz and his devoted men,” Prince Abdullah said.
King Abdul Aziz established the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Jamad Al-Awwal 19, 1351AH after a series of battles. His national unification campaign began with the restoration of Riyadh on Shawwal 5, 1319AH.
Prince Abdullah cautioned the Saudis against the campaigns of the enemies of Saudi Arabia and other Arab and Islamic countries and said the situation required a firm position and unwavering conviction.
The current dangers “demand a collective effort to stand firm and without weakness against those who intend to cause harm to our religion, our nation and our achievements,” he said.
Prince Abdullah also vowed Riyadh would continue to work for world peace and stability.
The Cabinet took a number of political and economic decisions. It gave the green light to Saudi Arabia joining the World Tourism Organization and authorized the chief of the Youth Welfare Presidency to sign the Copenhagen Declaration combating doping in sports.
The Cabinet endorsed the GCC economic agreement. It also approved changes to regulations governing the terms of the board members of public organizations.
Under the new rules, board members serve for three years, renewable only for one more term, exempting executive officials such as governors and directors general.
Meanwhile, King Fahd has ordered the payment of SR75 million to purchase 21,000 tons of dates from local farmers. Agriculture Minister Dr. Fahd Balghaneim said the lion’s share of the purchase would be distributed free of charge among needy Saudis. A substantial share will also be given to the World Food Program, he added.
