JEDDAH, 20 December 2006 — Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal said yesterday that Saudi Arabia would not take sides in Iraqi sectarian violence, denying press reports that Riyadh would support Sunnis in the wake of a US withdrawal from the war-torn country.
“Since the start of the crisis in Iraq...the Kingdom has said it will stand at an equal distance from all Iraqi groups and does not describe itself as the guardian of any group or sect,” he said to reporters in Riyadh.
He said Saudi Arabia would continue its efforts to bring about security and stability in Iraq. “We cooperate with all those who want a united, independent and sovereign Iraq,” he said. “And we hope all Iraqi citizens receive equal rights and duties under the law.”
Asked whether Saudi Arabia would support the call by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for early elections, Saud said it is a matter that should be decided by the Palestinians. He said the Kingdom would support every effort to promote Palestinian unity.
“Disunity will lead to losing of rights and the nation,” the Saudi Press Agency quoted him as saying. “We hope that unity will return to Palestinian ranks and they follow the path of international and Arab legitimacy.”
Prince Saud dismissed as “baseless” British press reports on corruption charges against an arms deal between Saudi Arabia and BAE Systems. “Old stories are repeated now and then in order to create some kind of suspicion not only about the deal but also bilateral relations,” he said.
He confirmed the resignation of Saudi Ambassador to the US Prince Turki Al-Faisal on the basis of personal reasons. He praised Turki’s contributions in the service of the Kingdom during his tenure. Asked about the possibility of Turki becoming his successor, the minister replied jokingly: “If the royal highness is coming to take my post, then he should be ready for a fight.”
He welcomed Iran’s offer to assist GCC countries to develop nuclear technology for peaceful purposes. “We are against proliferation of nuclear weapons,” he said.
