RIYADH: Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah will formally open the fifth Shoura Council today. On this occasion, the king will deliver a speech spelling out the Saudi government’s plans and policies on the whole range of domestic and international issues.
“King Abdullah has paid great attention to promoting and empowering the Shoura Council for which we are highly indebted,” said Abdullah Al-Asheikh, Shoura chairman, yesterday. The king, he said, will explain the Kingdom’s internal and external policies in his speech and unveil his economic, social and political reform plans.
Al-Asheikh, in a press statement, said he appreciated the role and the efforts of the king in supporting the Shoura, while underlining “the important role being played by the Shoura Council as a legislative body.”
The Shoura takes decisions after elaborate discussions on issues and affairs that concern the country, he added.
King Abdullah will deliver his address this afternoon. The king’s speech will be preceded by an address by the Shoura chairman, who will briefly outline the past achievements of the council.
The Shoura is an appointed body that advises the Saudi government on important issues and enacts legislation. Formed in 1993 by a royal decree, the Shoura Council consists of 150 members appointed by the king for four-year terms.
Members according to their expertise are assigned to various committees that deal with human rights, education, culture, information, health, foreign affairs, security, administration, Islamic affairs, economy and finance.
