Vice Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Prince Salman yesterday emphasized Saudi Arabia’s efforts in the service of the holy haram in Makkah and the millions of pilgrims who come from all over the world for Haj and Umrah. “It is a big responsibility,” he said.
Addressing princes, ministers, senior Islamic scholars and prominent Makkah citizens who came to greet him, Prince Salman highlighted the unity and solidarity of Saudi society.
“By the grace of God, the citizens of Saudi Arabia are one nation and one family. There is no distinction or discrimination amongst us,” the prince told the gathering.
He attributed the Kingdom’s security and stability to its implementation of the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah that form the country’s constitution. He extended the participants the greetings of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah. Those attended the reception at Al-Salam Palace included members of the Makkah Provincial Council, municipal councils and boards of chambers in Makkah, Jeddah and Taif.
Speaking at the reception, Talal Mirza, chairman of Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stressed the importance of unity to strengthen the Kingdom.
“We believe that God supports people who stand united. Our pride is in our Islamic faith and our strength is in our unity.” He emphasized the importance of promoting justice, tolerance and constructive dialogue.
Mirza congratulated Prince Salman and the Saudi people on the occasion of the 82nd anniversary of the Kingdom’s National Day and commended King Abdul Aziz for his endeavors to unify the country and set up the Shoura system.
He praised King Abdullah for launching a SR 80 billion project to expand the Grand Mosque in Makkah and carrying out massive projects to improve facilities for pilgrims. “The new projects will not only help pilgrims perform their rituals comfortably but also boost the national economy,” he pointed out.
The annual gathering of pilgrims from different parts of the world has taught us great lessons on how to coexist with others peacefully and in a wise and cultured manner, he said about Haj.
Mirza commended the efforts made by Saudi leaders to boost the Kingdom’s development over the past years. “We are proud of you,” he said about the royal family.
Also yesterday, Prince Salman received a high-level delegation from the Palestinian Liberation Organization, including Nabil Shaath, a member of the central committee. Prince Salman and PLO officials discussed issues of mutual concern.
Prince Salman also met with Imran Riza, UNHCR’s regional representative in the GCC, and discussed prospects of expanding cooperation between the Kingdom and the organization.
