Releasing the figures featured in the last edition of the publication “Kingdom to Kingdom,” the ambassador expressed hope that this figure would increase this year and in the future as the Saudi economy continues to diversify away from oil.
He said the relationship between the two kingdoms has remained strong and vibrant. He referred to the recent visits of Prince Andrew and the Prince of Wales who came to pay their respects following the death of Crown Prince Sultan.
These visits highlight just how strong and valued the connections between the two royal families are, the ambassador said.
Sir Tom said the visit of Foreign Secretary William Hague was also worth mentioning.
He added that the British minister’s talks with Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal in Jeddah in early July last year illustrates the depth and range of common interests binding both countries, as they work toward sustainable security in a region which has had more than its fair share of challenges during 2012.
Talking about an upcoming high-profile Haj exhibition at the British Museum in London on Jan. 26, the ambassador said: “What also seems to me to be wonderful about the Haj pilgrimage is how it brings together people from so many nations, and so many walks of life, around a shared common aspiration. Such an exhibition without the support of Saudi Arabia would be difficult to imagine, while the support and cooperation of the King Abdul Aziz Public Library has been crucial.”
Referring to the Saudi services for pilgrims, the envoy said: “I know that the Saudi government attaches huge importance to the wellbeing and safety of all pilgrims performing Haj. It is impressive that a comprehensive, free health care service is available to the pilgrims during their stay, and we have already seen air ambulances deployed earlier in the month as part of the government’s rapid response.”
He added that security too is taken seriously, with a strong well-trained force present at all the holy sites to serve and protect the pilgrims as they carry out their rituals.
He pointed out that the introduction of the new metro system would make transportation between the holy sites hassle-free, easing congestion and reducing pollution. He believed the pilgrimage created a wonderful feeling.
“The British Embassy, according to Sir Tom, has been busy with trade relations, its main focus.
“As many of you will know, one of the UK government’s foreign policy objectives is to build Britain’s prosperity, and we have been lucky enough to have a visit from both the UK Minister for Trade and Investment Lord Green and the Duke of York, both of whom were here to promote the strong trade relationship we have with Saudi Arabia as well as looking at new opportunities for the future. In sports, too, our countries share many of the same ambitions, and October witnessed the 23rd annual meeting of the Committee on UK/Saudi Arabia Sport.”
During a meeting with officials from the British Museum and the King Abdul Aziz Public Library to iron out the final details for the exhibition, Prince Mohammed bin Nawaf, Saudi ambassador to the United Kingdom, reaffirmed that the Kingdom was ready for the three-month Haj expo, according to reports published in the local media.
