JEDDAH, 5 October 2004 — Today, Shaaban 21, 1425H, marks the 23rd anniversary of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd’s accession to the throne. Saudi Arabia has made tremendous progress in economic, political, social, educational and health sectors during King Fahd’s reign. Built on the strong foundations laid by King Abdul Aziz, the founder of the Kingdom Saudi Arabia, King Fahd has led the nation through a period of unparalleled growth and prosperity. Wisdom, moderation and vision have enabled him to enhance the position of the Kingdom and increase its global influence.
He introduced a series of political, economic and social reforms over the years including elections to municipal councils and a series of measures to empower women and expand job opportunities for them. He has taken bold steps in the direction of privatization. As home to the two holy mosques, Saudi Arabia is viewed with great respect by Muslims all over the world. King Fahd initiated the largest expansions of the two holy mosques in Islamic history. Billions of riyals have been spent to improve the facilities and services for the pilgrims.
The Kingdom is also the world’s largest oil producer and exporter. During his long rule, King Fahd has worked persistently to ensure the stability of oil prices and production, which is crucial to all world economies.
On the international stage, the king has followed the policy of his father, the late King Abdul Aziz — that of non-interference in the affairs of other countries. However, this principle has not prevented him from working for regional stability, nor has it dimmed his commitment to Arab ideals.
King Fahd also championed the Palestinian cause, advocating the return of the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in the June 1967 war. He has personally been in the vanguard of leaders who seek to alleviate the sufferings of the Palestinians in the occupied territories.
For the past 22 years the king has defied the odds to achieve his goals. He came to the throne when Lebanon was under siege, Iraq-Iran war was in full swing, Afghanistan was being blown apart by the Soviets and the world economy was on a downward spiral. And yet he steered Saudi Arabia toward safety while playing a pivotal role in international affairs. It was his astute diplomacy that saw Saudi Arabia become a stabilizing factor, without involving itself directly in regional disputes.
While caring for Muslim visitors to the Kingdom has been paramount, Saudi Arabia has not hesitated to reach out to the Islamic community across the world.
Under the king’s direction, Islamic centers, institutes, colleges and mosques have been built throughout the world to enlighten Muslims on their religion and to spread the message of Islam.
