DEVELOPMENTS IN SAUDI ARABIA AND ARAB COUNTRIES
Foreign Minster holds Periodic Press Briefing
Riyadh, March 29, SPA -- Prince Saud Al-Faisal, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, held here today a periodic press briefing.
At the outset of the briefing, Prince Saud delivered the following press statement:
In the Name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
In its recent meeting, the Council of Ministers underscored very clearly the policy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is based on the principles of truthfulness and transparency in dealing with Arab and Islamic issues, commitment to covenants and pledges, giving precedence to national Arab interest over foreign alliances, and capitalizing on international relations to serve crucial Arab causes. This policy is based on the Kingdom's keenness to promote the Arab solidarity according to the document of covenant and solidarity sanctioned by the Arab leaders at Tunis summit.
The recent Saudi political effort within the Arab League and on the Arab and international arenas focused on this framework. The Kingdom has been looking forward to Damascus summit to achieve these goals. However, what we have so far regrettably observed through the circumstances connected to the summit, that they are not suggestive of this desired or hoped results.
The Palestinian issue remains the crucial Arab cause, which has most of the attention and tireless efforts of the government of Saudi Arabia to reinstate the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people on the basis of international legitimacy and resolutions, and the Arab peace initiative. While this issue is plagued with international dimensions and complications due to Israeli foreign occupation of the Arab territories, and requires redoubled efforts on the international arena, the problem of Lebanon could be a model to resolve the crisis within the Arab house. Particularly as the Arab League has reached an integrated and balanced plan to solve crisis that responds to demands of all Lebanese parties and achieves balance amongst themselves, away from control of the decision-making or halting it by the parliamentary majority or minority. The initiative received full Arab unanimity without exception, including Syria. The initiative also enjoyed widespread international support by virtue of the tireless efforts of the Kingdom and its Arab brethren on the international arena. An objective of these efforts is to distance Lebanon from any outside interventions that would complicate the situation.
Unfortunately, on the other hand, there were attempts to disrupt the Arab solution in Lebanon, and even to further consolidate foreign interference there. Such attempts started since the assassination of Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri, then the assassinations that followed targeting the same faction, and then the resignation of ministers in the Lebanese government, in an attempt to strip off its legitimacy, and working to incite and acting on freezing Lebanon's constitutional institutions including parliament without any constitutional or legal ground.
Since the beginning of the crisis, Saudi Arabia has tried diligently to reach a compromise that preserves the interests of everybody, and capitalized on its impact on the Lebanese arena by virtue of its membership in the tripartite committee formed by the Arab summit to stop the Lebanese civil war, the Kingdom's sponsoring of Taif agreement, the Saudi continuous economic support for Lebanon and its reconstruction, and based on our national Arab duty towards a brotherly Arab state. All these efforts have been done without any hidden agenda or plans on the part of the Kingdom. Our motives are only that Lebanon overcomes its ordeal, and achieves its security, stability, and prosperity.
From the beginning, the Kingdom has been keen in its movement to maintain the same distance from all Lebanese parties, and urge them to adopt dialogue and concord, and to give precedence to the national interest over narrow factional ones. The Kingdom even exerted efforts to persuade the majority group in the government side to respond once and again to any positive proposals made by the opposition group forwarded by Mr. Nabih Berri, as the representative of the opposition then. However, each time a solution is accepted, another refusal gets matters back to the starting point.
Regretfully, the same attitude continued in dealing with the Arab initiative, both in halting what is agreed upon, or firmly establishing external influence on the Lebanese arena at the expense of the highest interests of Lebanon, which have full Arab support. It is noted that there is no logic or understood justification for disrupting the initiative which satisfies the demands of all parties by immediately electing a President, the formation of a national unity government, acting to draft a new law for elections and holding parliamentary elections on an agreed date.
It is regrettable that this did not stop only at disrupting the initiative approved with Arab unanimity, but went further to the flagrant attack by some Lebanese factions against the Arab League, the most important Arab constitutional institution, in disrespect of the Arab League, its position, other Arab constitutional institutions and undermining its role in promoting and developing the joint Arab action.
This attack calls for a firm stand to give our Arab constitutional institutions back their respect and maintain their credibility. The Arab League primarily constitutes a unique alliance between its members and a symbol that should not be transgressed upon. This urges us to adopt the same firm policies of other corresponding international political institutions which impose deterrent penalties in the event of disruption or failure to implement any of its unanimous resolutions. This action will enable us to restore respect for our Arab institutions, and assure their peoples and countries that they will be standing by their legitimate causes.
It goes without saying that attempts to disrupt solutions in Lebanon, ignoring the Arab League resolutions are the same attempts trying clearly and tangibly to deepen the Palestinian rift, disrupt political solutions in Iraq, and tamper with Arab causes in general.
In spite of this, the Kingdom has been keen to participate in the Damascus summit event at the minimum level to boost Arab solidarity, especially as the Kingdom has not previously boycotted an Arab summit. The level of representation of the Kingdom at the summit is attributed to the unfortunate circumstances to which I have referred, and to the Kingdom's conviction that the approach adopted in dealing with the Arab issues to be considered by conference will not be leading to an Arab reunion and will not achieve its solidarity, especially at this critical and dangerous juncture through which the Arab nation is passing, and the challenges it is facing.
However, I hope that I am wrong in my discretion. I hope that the summit would come up with a solution to the Lebanese crisis in accordance with the initiative of the Arab League, which its Secretary-General exerted substantial efforts trying to implement the initiative with the Lebanese parties. We still expect from Damascus, where the Summit is held, a positive movement on the Lebanese arena to implement the initiative, to complement to the tireless efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and a number of Arab States. We also hope that the summit will succeed in patching up the Arab rift, closing the ranks and giving precedence to the national Arab interest over foreign interests.
It is my pleasure to take your questions.
Responding to a question on reports in Syrian circles that the reduction of the rate of representation of a number of Arab countries at Damascus summit such as Egypt, Jordan and Yemen resulted from Saudi pressure, Prince Saud said," These states are independent. I do not think that they pursue a policy of any other state. I think that this accusation is ignominious with regard to these states. We do not accept, nor will we accept such an insult to any Arab country".
On Palestinian affairs, Prince Saud praised the efforts of Yemen regarding the Palestinians and its initiative to bridge the rift between Fatah and Hamas movements, saying," We hope that the summit will adopt the initiative. Yemen is commendable for exerting all efforts of duty in this framework and for gathering brethren. Palestinians should recognize their interests, notice that their rift will dispel their interests, return to the right and reconcile with each other."
Commenting on the absence of almost half of Arab leaders from Damascus summit and whether this action is for isolating Syria, Prince Saud said, '' I have not felt from any Arab parties a desire to isolate Syria, but on the contrary. . Syria is one among important states in the region. Of course, it concerns all Arab countries that Syria should be in the framework of joint Arab action. In this context, I said that the problem is that what had been unanimously endorsed at the Arab League, including Syria, has not been implemented in the measures taken later on the ground ."
Prince Saud stressed that he has never seen an attempt from any Arab party to isolate Syria, affirming that Syria can not be isolated. He added, "Syria is an Arab country in the heart of the Arab nation. We hope that Syria contributes and will be a basis for solving the Lebanese problem. We never look forward to isolating Syria or to any means that harm it".
Replying to a question on forming a Troika Committee to find a plan for solving the Arab crisis, Prince Saud said," The problem is not in finding the means or formulas to solve the Arab problem, but the problem is that these states having problems among them should have a desire to solve problems among each other and accept mediations in this framework. The problem should be considered from these two points. Setting frameworks for solution by the Arab League to form a troika or a committee is easy to reach, but finding political convictions and political will to the parties having conflicts among each other is the matter that should be considered."
In reply to a question on possible means of keeping respect for constitutional institutions and the response to any attack on the Arab League which mentioned in the covenant document adopted in Tunisia, Prince Saud said,"As for other institutions, if a decision was unanimously taken without implementation from any party, there would be deterrent measures for this action. But if we continue taking decisions without implementation, and the situation continues as it is, the institution will lose its seriousness. The League is different from other institutions as it is a full alliance among certain parties. The alliance states that we all seek for the security of each other. This is one of the most elements of cooperation and solidarity among nations. If it is so, then its weakening will undoubtedly weaken the national security of the Arab nation. This is our league, how we seek to weaken it by our hands. There are those who try to weaken it, but if the tool in performing this is an Arab hand, I believe that this can not be acceptable or reasonable and can not be accepted in the Arab nation."
As for the results of visits by officials of Saudi Arabia before the summit to support joint Arab action, Prince Saud," Of course, they failed and have not yielded a solution despite the calls by the Arab states, but unfortunately the solution did not come."
Arab League Chief calls for Arab meeting later this year
DAMASCUS, Syria, March 29, SPA -- Arab League chief Amr Moussa says Arab foreign ministers should meet later this year to evaluate the Arab-Israeli peace talks.
Moussa has made the comments at Saturday's opening of anArab summit in Damascus. Moussa says Arab foreign ministers should meet in mid-2008 to determine "which direction we are moving" in the peace process with Israel, according to a report of the Associated Press.
Al-Assad addresses Arab Summit
Damascus, March 29, SPA -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, addressing the inaugural session of the Arab summit here today, hoped that the summit would yield positive results.
He noted that the convening of the summit at this critical time is a matter of honor and responsibility.
He noted that Syria believes in the significance of the joint Arab work, adding that 'we have done our best to create the suitable environment for ensuring the success of the summit, and I do feel happy for surpassing several obstacles which impede its path'.
"We are facing series of challenges which threaten our solidarity and make our countries an open theatre for the disputes of others'. Al-Assad said the Arab-Arab relations and the surrounding circumstances in the past and present have created an unacceptable situation in the Arab world.
Al-Assad noted that the Arabs do realize the significance of peace and noted that the Arab peace initiative in 2002 constitutes a clear evidence for the intention of the Arab countries on realizing peace. Security will be realized only through peace and not through aggression and wars, he said, adding that the Arabs have spared no opportunity to express their desire in peace.
"On the contrary, Israel has been behaving in an arrogant manner and refusing to apply the international resolutions," Al-Assad noted.
Arab Summit begins 20th session
Damascus, March 29, SPA -- Syrian President Bashar al-Assad opened here today the 20th ordinary session of the Arab Summit.
More Leaders Skip Arab Summit
Arab News
DAMASCUS, 29 March 2008 - More Arab leaders yesterday joined the long list of those staying away from an Arab Summit in a snub to the Syrian hosts for backing the Lebanese opposition.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=4§ion=0&article=108369&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=world.jpg&category=World)
Hamas Urges Arab Leaders to Back Yemeni Initiative
Mohammed Mar'i, Arab News
RAMALLAH, West Bank, 29 March 2008 - Hamas has urged the Arab leaders meeting in Damascus today and tomorrow to help end Israeli blockade of Gaza and back the Yemen-sponsored reconciliation agreement between the group and its Palestinian rival Fatah.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=4§ion=0&article=108351&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=world.jpg&category=World)
Earthquake hits Yemen, but no casualties
Dhamar, Yemen, March 29, SPA -- An earthquake measuring 3.6 on the Richter scale hit on Saturday the province of Dhamar, SABA quoted officials at the Center of Earthquake Monitoring as saying. (http://www.spa.gov.sa/English/details.php?id=540962 )
OIC condemns Geert Wilders' Film defaming Islam
Jeddah, March 29, SPA -- The Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) has condemned the Dutch film, produced by Geert Wilders, which defamed Islam and the Holy Quran, and said that such a development has hurt the feelings of the Muslims throughout the world.
OIC's Secretary General Professor Ekmel-eddin Ihsan Oglu said in a press statement today that the film aims at discriminating against the Muslims and stirring up enmity against them as well as causing turmoil and undermining the pillars of global peace and stability.
Ihsan Oglu said as the international community and the Dutch government has voiced opposition to the film, then its production would be viewed as a challenge to the international community.
The production of the film emphasizes what was earlier demanded by the OIC as regards issuance of a decision by the UN to prohibit such provocative acts and enacting legislations against similar acts which pave the way for violence and hatred, he added.
Council of Europe: reject the distorted and offensive image of Islam
Statement by Terry Davis, Secretary General and Maud de Boer-Buquicchio, Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe
Press release - 219(2008)/ Council of Europe Press Division
Strasbourg, 28.03.2008, "The film by the Dutch politician Geert Wilders is a distasteful manipulation which exploits ignorance, prejudice and fear. It is simply political propaganda and it plays into the hands of extremists who are given such a prominent role in his film. The film will upset the great majority of people of Islamic faith in Europe who reject violence and accept our common values.
As the Secretary General and the Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe, which is the guardian of the European Convention on Human Rights, we defend freedom of expression, but in this case we do so with disappointment and concern. It is a sad day for European democracy when the most fundamental principles on which it has been built are used to promulgate intolerant and deeply offensive stereotypes.
The vast majority of people in Europe, in all communities and of all faiths or no faith, believe in dialogue, mutual respect and European values. We call on all our fellow Europeans to join us in rejecting this offensive and distorted image of Islam."
SRCS Chief receives Kyrgyz Ambassador
Riyadh, March 29 , SPA -- Prince Faisal bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, President of the Saudi Red Crescent Society (SRCS) received here today Kyrgyz Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Joseph Bick.
During the meeting, they discussed a number of issues pertaining to the bilateral relations between the two countries including extending humanitarian assistance to the needy in the Kyrgyz republic.
Al-Turki receives GCC Delegation
Makkah, March 29, SPA -- Secretary General of the Muslim World League (MWL) Dr Abdullah al-Turki received here today a delegation from the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Speaking on the occasion, Dr al-Turki underlined the importance of enhancing cooperation between the MWL and the GCC.
He noted that the MWL has been doing its best to narrow gaps among the Muslim countries and projecting Islam in its proper perspective.
Dr al-Turki lauded the efforts exerted by the GCC to tackle the problems of the Muslim world.
Rice Prices May Increase as Vietnam, India Curb Exports
Raid Qusti, Arab News
RIYADH, 29 March 2008 - Rice prices are likely to increase in the Kingdom with major rice exporters Vietnam and India yesterday confirming that they will curb overseas sales in an effort to combat food inflation.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=108372&d=29&m=3&y=2008)
KSU implements Genetic Discovery program
Riyadh, March 29, SPA -- The visit of King Saud University delegation led by the KSU rector Dr. Abdullah Al-Othman to France resulted in implementing the National Program for Genetic Discovery and its vital and essential application for genetic diseases causing immuno-deficiency and infectious diseases.
(http://www.spa.gov.sa/English/details.php?id=540901)
Why People Are Reluctant to Help Victims of Accidents
Muhammad Al-Homaid, Arab News
YANBU, 29 March 2008 - The horrific death of a five-year-old girl, who passed away on March 14 while waiting for over an hour for an ambulance after being knocked over in a hit-and-run accident, has highlighted the widespread reluctance of members of the public to help the injured.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=108371&d=29&m=3&y=2008)
Lifting Ban on Women Driving Will Bring Economic Windfall: Experts
Sarah Abdullah, Arab News
JEDDAH, 29 March 2008 - As women's rights groups continue to steam ahead in full speed petitioning for the reversal of the ban on women's driving in the Kingdom, experts on the issue conclude that the move, if successful, would not only lift the ban itself but the Saudi economy as well.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=108366&d=29&m=3&y=2008)
Saudi Investors Adopt Wait-and-See Approach
Khalil Hanware & Abdul Jalil Mustafa, Arab News
JEDDAH/AMMAN, 29 March 2008 - Saudi shares appeared in a consolidation phase last week though the trading volume was the lowest since June 2006.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=6§ion=0&article=108363&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=business.jpg&category=Business)
Mobily Provides In-Flight Calls Via AeroMobile
Arab News
RIYADH, 29 March 2008 - Etihad Etisalat (Mobily) has become the first Saudi mobile operator to launch in-flight calls aboard select airlines, the company said in a statement yesterday. Mobily customers can now call and text message loved ones, and business associates as they travel aboard select Emirates Airline flights, through a landmark agreement with AeroMobile, the specialized aviation mobile operator.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=6§ion=0&article=108364&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=business.jpg&category=Business)
ABC to Raise Share Capital by $500 Million
Arab News
MANAMA, 29 March 2008 - Bahrain-headquartered Arab Banking Corporation's (ABC) 2007 consolidated accounts were ratified at the 2007 meeting of the general assembly convened here last week.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=6§ion=0&article=108365&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=business.jpg&category=Business)
Saudi Hotel Market to Go Significantly Upscale
Compiled by K.S. Ramkumar
RIYADH, 29 March 2008 - On schedule to open to the public in September is the Park Hyatt Jeddah, which defines its offering as 'contemporary luxury' and will make a significant impact on the upscale market currently on offer…..
JEDDAH, 29 March 2008 - Air Arabia Strengthens Its Fleet…..
JEDDAH, 29 March 2008 - SriLankan Holidays Offers Packages …..
DUBAI, 29 March 2008 - InterCont Backs Inaugural Event at DFC ……
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=9§ion=0&article=108352&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=community.jpg&category=Features)
Al-Dosary Publishes Memoirs
Badea Abu Al-Naja, Arab News
MAKKAH, 29 March 2008 - Muhammad ibn Rasheed Al-Dosary, a living companion of King Abdul Aziz, the founder of the Saudi Arabia, published his memoirs recently. The book is called "Memoirs of the Youngest Attendant of King Abdul Aziz". Al-Dosary was in the service of the king over five years.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=1§ion=0&article=108367&d=29&m=3&y=2008)
Terrorism - Compare and Contrast
Tanya Hsu, tanyahsu@mindspring.com
Saturday 29 March 2008 (21 Rabi` al-Awwal 1429)
Last week in Arab News, columnist Fatin Bundagji wrote of a letter from an American, rather typical of the refrain we have heard for the past five years. Accusing Ms. Bundagji of "conveniently" forgetting that Arab terrorists attacked the US, the writer implied that America has every right to retaliate against anybody, an individual or nation, it considers an enemy. Thus the rightful invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, neither state having had anything to do with 9/11 whatsoever.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=7§ion=0&article=108354&d=29&m=3&y=2008)
Distribution of Gifts Among Children During One's Lifetime
Adil Salahi, Arab News
Q. I have five daughters and one son, and I want to distribute my money among them in accordance with Islam. People have given me different answers about the shares I give to each. Some say one-sixth to a daughter and some say one-third. Please advise.
(http://www.arabnews.com/?page=5§ion=0&article=108343&d=29&m=3&y=2008&pix=islam.jpg&category=Islam)
