RIYADH, 21 January 2004 — Crown Prince Abdullah, deputy premier and commander of the National Guard, yesterday said that any anti-Saudi media campaign in the US and elsewhere would not weaken the long-standing strong ties between Saudi Arabia and the United States.
Addressing the Association of Friends of Saudi Arabia including visiting former US President Bill Clinton and former Mexican President Ernesto Zedillo at Al-Yamamah Palace here, Prince Abdullah said he has full confidence in the “great American people” who appreciate sincere friendship.
Referring to international oil market, Prince Abdullah said the Kingdom favored “moderate” prices without causing any harm to world economies. He also noted the country’s efforts to ensure adequate supply of oil and gas. He said the Kingdom would go ahead with its development programs without discarding its noble values and traditions.
In his reply, Clinton said he had brought with him a group of Americans in order to strengthen friendship and understanding between the two nations. “This delegation represents different religions and social classes who are all concerned with peace,” the former president said.
Zedillo also emphasized the links between his country and Saudi Arabia and commended Riyadh’s role in stabilizing the international oil market.
The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal and leading figures including Prince Abdul Aziz ibn Abdullah, chairman of the association and Prince Faisal ibn Salman, chairman of Saudi Research & Marketing Group.
