Iran continues its aggressive approach in the region and instability in Yemen

 The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia states that Iran continues its aggressive approach in the region and continues to interfere in the internal affairs of Arabic countries, which lead to instability and unrest in the region.

The instability and tension in Yemen is a consequence of Iran’s interference in Yemen with the aim to destabilize the country, disrupt its peace, and threaten its security. Iran seeks to incite sectarian sensitivities and to sabotage international efforts towards reaching a settlement of the Yemeni Conflict in accordance with UN resolution 2216 (issued in 2015). The Iranian Regime continues to support and encourage rebels by supplying them with arms, military experts, and missiles. This has led to instability and increased tension in the region, let alone to the suffering of the Yemeni People. The attacks against Saudi borders and  Cities would not have been occurred without Iran’s intensified encouragement and support of the rebels in Yemen, which went as far as threatening international navigation.

The Kingdom emphasizes its right to protect its sovereignty and security, and thus calls upon the international community to take its responsibility and fulfil its duty by responding to the actions of the Iranian Regime, which resulted in instability of the region as well as aggression and interference in states’ internal affairs.

Coalition denies Yemeni funeral bombing

 SA News October 9, 2016

The Coalition supporting the legitimate government in Yemen was not involved in the strikes at funeral in Yemen. About it reports Reuters referring to a source in the Arabian coalition.

“Absolutely nothing was carried out in the region”, one of the Arabian coalition sources said, the coalition always avoid attacking such a crowd of people.

According to the statement carried by the Saudi Press  Agency (SPA). The Coalition supporting the legitimate government in Yemen has announced that it is aware of reports about the regrettable and painful bombing of the Great Hall in Sana’a today 8/10/2016 , which led to the killing and and injuring of casualties, as reported.

The coalition expressed its deepest condolences and support to the families of the victims of hostilities since of the coup takeover of power in Yemen during 2014.

The coalition confirms that its troops have clear instructions not to target populated areaa and to avoid civilians.

The coalition will immediately investigate this case along with Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) in Yemen and experts from the United States who participated in previous investigations.

The coalition is also willing to provide the investigation team with any data and information related to its military operations today, at the incident’s location and the surrounding areas.

The result of the investigation should be announced as soon as it’s completed.

“Saudi Arabia’s Counter-Terrorism, Efforts” Exhibition opens in Canberra, Australia

Ambassador Al Saleh , Col. Sami Al-Mutairi with Military Attachés of numerous foreign embassies in Australia.

 SA NEWS , Canberra, SEP 25,2016.

Saudi Arabia’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts” Exhibition organised by the Saudi military attaché at the Saudi Embassy in Canberra, was opened by the Saudi Ambassador to Australia, Nabil Al Saleh, and Ms Lyndall Sachs, Chief Protocol of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) . The opening took place on the sidelines of the Saudi Embassy’s celebrations of the Saudi Arabian National Day.

The event was attended by senior embassy staff and Australian senior military representatives from the Royal Australian Defence Force, and Military Attachés of numerous foreign embassies in Australia.

In a statement to SPA, Ambassador Al Saleh highlighted the role being played by the Kingdom in combating terrorism and its humanitarian relief initiatives all over the world, “Their efforts emanate from its pioneering regional and international role to bring about peace and stability in the world” Ambassador Alsaleh Said .

On his part, the the Saudi military attaché in the Royal embassy of Saudi Arabia in Australian Col. Gen. Sami Ben Fahd Al-Mutairi explained the contents of the exhibition, including the presentations, posters, books and documentary films on display showing the Kingdom’s efforts to fight terrorism. The exhibition also highlights Saudi Arabia’s efforts in the formation of an Islamic alliance to fight terrorism and establish humanitarian relief, as represented in the King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid .

Ambassador Al Saleh’s Remarks on Saudi National Day – Canberra, 2016

Saudi Ambassador  to Australia  and New Zealand Mr  Nabil Al Saleh

Remarks at National Day 2016 Reception”

Speech, check against delivery, Canberra, Australia , 22 September, 2016

Excellencies, distinguished guests.  It is my great pleasure to welcome you here tonight, as we celebrate the passing of 86 years since the unification of Saudi Arabia.

We have succeeded in this period beyond expectations.  Today, Saudi Arabia has become a leading player in regional and international affairs.  We have improved our standard of living. We have created opportunities for our people, and have built cities and a country of which we are proud of.

As you know, the region, and the whole world is changing fast, entering an era full of challenges. And this, in its own right, contributes to the introduction of new and unique opportunities, in building a more resilient and comprehensive economy.

For well over a decade, the Kingdom has enjoyed uninterrupted real economic growth, with an average growth rate of 5 % over the past 5 years.  Whilst we are in a strong position, we understand the necessity to adapt to a new paradigm, to face whatever challenges and strains that may arise.

It is in this context that we have embarked on implementing Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic strategy. Vision 2030, announced by our government earlier this year, aims to transform our country; diversify our sources of income, into an economy that is vibrant and resilient.

Where we are changing the mind-set of the country from an oil producer, to an innovative, competitive, efficient society, as we unleash the potential of our youth. Where we are making ministries and government as a whole more accountable, setting the highest levels of transparency and governance across all sectors. Where we look at ways to increase foreign investment as well as domestic investment in Saudi Arabia, and empower the role of women.

However, ‘Vision 2030’ is much more than that. It is also about looking at sectors that have been underutilised. Whether it is in mining or manufacturing; whether it is in defence, services, or education; whether it is in research and technology. After all, ‘Vision 2030’ is not just a slogan – its baselines and fundamentals are non-negotiable. And these elements are what is central to the vision; which are:

–              Our position as the heart of the Arab and Islamic worlds.

–              Becoming a global and leading investment powerhouse.

–              And, making Saudi Arabia a global epicentre of trade, connecting three continents; Asia, Europe and Africa.

That is why we have launched the ‘2020 National Transformation Plan’.  A blueprint, which outlines the pathway to 2030; how we plan and monitor our work. It is a roadmap, which will ensure that ministries , institutions , and government entities work on implementing the Vision. The results of which will be published so that it can be publically monitored. It is because of this, that we are quite optimistic:

Of becoming within the world’s 15th largest economy by 2030, up from our current position of 19th in the world. Transforming our Public Investment Fund into the world’s largest sovereign wealth fund.  Increasing its assets from $214 billion Australian dollars to over $2.5 trillion Australian dollars.  As well as increasing the private sector’s contribution from 40% to 65% of GDP, and increasing Small and medium-sized enterprises’ contribution to GDP from 20% to 35%. And, of lowering the rate of unemployment from 11.6% to 7%.

Moreover, of moving ahead in global rankings. For instance, from our current position, of 82nd in the World Bank Index of Ease of Doing Business, to rank 20th by 2020. As well as from 25th to rank 20th in the Global Competitiveness Index within the coming four years.

But Ladies and Gentlemen,

‘Vision 2030’ signifies a lot of possibilities.  I would encourage you to enter into constructive partnerships with us. True that ‘Vision 2030’ is entirely Saudi.  That we will localise manufacturing, and harness the knowledge acquired by our nationals studying on government scholarships abroad.   Which, at present, number in excess of 200 thousand.

But the private sector has an integral role to play in fulfilling our vision.  And so, the opportunities for you are there. Particularly as we need the skills, the expertise and technical know-how.

Indeed, Saudi Arabia has, is, and will continue to be an appealing investment destination. And these activities and opportunities will not cease. Whether it is in Health, Defence, Education, Mining, Food Security, Infrastructure, services, or ICT just to name a few. Sectors that Saudi Arabia and Australia can work on closely together. But let me just briefly illustrate some of the possibilities:

Although we are the world’s 3rd biggest military spender, only 2% of this spending is within the Kingdom. We intend to localise over 50 % of military equipment spending by 2030. Doing so, will require strategic partnerships with the private sector.

Moreover, we see ourselves not as an oil producing country, but an energy producer – in solar, in wind, in clean energy. We intend to generate 9.5 giga-watts of renewable energy to meet our local energy consumption, which is set to increase three fold by 2030.  In doing so, we are entering into partnerships with institutions across the world, in research and technical collaborations.

Furthermore, we have established the Commission for Recreation and Culture, and have sought international interests in offering cultural activities and entertainment inside the Kingdom.

These changes will come in tandem with a population that is set to double over the coming decades.  As well as an increase in disposable income, and a growth in the number of annual travellers.

These will evidently lead to a strong rise in the demand for food and food security.  Religious travel alone is set to expand from 8 million to 15 million visitors by 2020, and to 30 million visitors per annum by 2030.

There will continue to be ample opportunities in the education and research field. Particularly as we seek to train over half a million public sector employees by 2020.  We will also encourage further collaboration and partnerships between our educational institutions and foreign universities. Particularly as we aspire to have five Saudi universities in the top 200 world universities by 2030.

Last but not least, the ICT sector will play an integral role, as it will drive this Vision, empowering our country, and economy.  It is worth remembering that Saudi Arabia is the largest ICT market in the Middle East region.

I could go on and on.

But my point is that all government departments are working in sync with the private sector to translate the vision into a reality.   We are pulling the pieces together from all over Government and relevant bodies.   The foundations are being laid. Vision 2030, and the mechanisms worked through as stated in the 2020 National Transformation Plan, has provided the means and the necessary assurances for investors to act with confidence.

It is in this regard that I should refer to the visit by the Australian Minister of Trade and Investment to Saudi Arabia in the near future.  I would encourage Australian businesses to accompany the Minister in this trip, or to seek the assistance provided by the Saudi Australia Busines Council. As it is a valuable vehicle to discover the transformation occurring on the ground, discuss the possibilities with the relevant officials, as well as prospective busines partners.

We know that the current trade balance between both our nations does not reflect its true potential.  Thus, seizing the opportunities currently presented, will turn the potential for exponential growth into a reality.  So, let me conclude by emphasising to you that: Saudi Arabia has chosen a clear path.  A path of creating an economy that is not dependent on oil as a source

of revenue. Making it a global and leading investment powerhouse, as well as a global epicentre for trade.  All of which will be based on good governance, transparency, and accountability.

In doing so, we look forward to working with all members of the business community, and international community, in our path to accomplish Vision 2030.

Thank you very much for your attendance.

Saudi Crown Prince meets Australian PM on sidelines of UNGA

Saudi Crown Prince meets Australian PM on sidelines of UNGA

SA News  New York  20-9-2016

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef has met on Tuesday with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

During the meeting, they reviewed bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Australia and ways of enhancing them, in all fields, in addition to issues of mutual interest.

According to a News report by  AAP  Malcolm Turnbull has had a frank discussion with Saudi Arabia’s deputy prime minister about how to fight” ISIS-Daesh” and its propaganda machine.

The discussion also focused on the difficulties of creating a clear path towards a political settlement in Syria.

The prime minister also reiterated Australia’s commitment to negotiating a free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Muslim World League Conference in Mecca: Islam is a Message of Peace and Moderation

SA News  Mecca  13^th  September 2016

The Muslim World League held a  ” Islam is a Message of Peace and Moderation” ,Conference  in Mecca this week ,  attended by the prominent Muslim scholars around the world .

The participants have applauded the outstanding Islamic services provided to the pilgrims of the Sacred House of Allah, as this facilitated for them the performance of their Hajj ritual  in security, and peace of mind. And conveyed their profound thanks and appreciation to Custodian of the Two Holy Masjids King Salman Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud for the Islamic glorious service that Allah helped him to render rendered to the Two Holy Masjids.

The participants strongly denounce the statements issued by  certain Iranian officials and theorists of its sectarian  the directions regarding their flagrant intervention in Hajj affairs in the context of their annual customary activity, which fell short of  even elevating itself to the higher objectives of Islam.

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince slams Iran over Hajj Comments

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef dismissed criticism made by Iranian Supreme leader over the Kingdom’s ability to manage the Hajj pilgrimage, as lacking any credibility and objectivity.

The Crown Prince reminded the Iranian supreme leader that Saudi Arabia had previously accommodated Iranian pilgrims with the same facilities as all other pilgrims.  He also accused Iran of trying to politicise the Hajj and endangering the security of all Hajj pilgrims, stressing that the law would be enforced against anyone who attempts to prevent the smooth running, safety, and security of the Hajj.  Adding that Iranian authorities have prevented their citizens from performing this year’s Hajj in an attempt to politicise it for their own purposes.

The Crown Prince reiterated in his statement released by the Saudi news agency SPA that the Hajj pilgrimage is a sacred ritual conducted in honoured places, and stressed that the Kingdom would take a strong stance against any action that compromises the safety and security of all pilgrims performing the Hajj.  

Ambassador Al Saleh launches the Saudi date distribution program in Australia

Ambassador of Saudi Arabia in Australia and New Zealand Nabil Al Saleh launched today the Saudi Date distribution program as a gift from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, “God protect him” to Muslims in Australia, New Zealand and neighbouring islands on the occasion of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Ambassador Al Saleh pointed out that the Embassy has distributed nearly six tonnes of dates across more than 120 associations and Islamic Centres and individuals in Australia, New Zealand and countries neighbouring islands in Fiji and Papa New Guinea and others during the Holy Month. H.E said the program is one of the charity initiatives undertaken by the Kingdom during the holy month of Ramadan.

Iranian Delegation of Hajj Leaves the Kingdom, Refuses to Sign Minutes of Concluding Arrangements of Iranian Pilgrims

Jeddah, May 27, 2016,

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued the following statement regarding the refusal of Iranian Organization of Hajj and Visit’s mission to sign minutes of concluding arrangements of Iranian pilgrims:

Further to the statement issued by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on 08/05/1437H regarding refusal of the Iranian Organization of Hajj and Visit’s mission to sign minutes of concluding arrangements of Iranian pilgrims for this Hajj season 1437H, and based on the keenness of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has responded to desire of the Chairman of Iranian Organization of Hajj and Visit and the accompanying delegation to come to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for signing the minutes of concluding arrangements of Iranian pilgrims’ arrival to perform Hajj rituals for this Hajj season 1437H.

The ministry formally received the delegation and provided all facilitations to them, including enabling them to perform Umrah. After that, continuous meetings were held on 18-19/08/1437H for long hours. The two sides dealt with all topics that have been discussed in previous meetings. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah suggested a number of solutions for all points requested by the Iranian Organization of Hajj and Visit as follows:

– Issuing visas electronically from inside Iran in accordance with mechanism agreed by the Saudi Foreign Ministry.

– Transporting pilgrims equally between the Saudi national carrier and Iranian national carrier.

– Approving the Iranian request by let it diplomatically represented through the Swiss embassy in order to take care of Iranian pilgrims’ interests where the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah immediately coordinated with the competent authorities to implement it.

But, at dawn on Friday, 20/08/1437H, the Iranian mission expressed its desire to leave to home without signing the minutes of arrangements of the Iranian pilgrims’ affairs.

Accordingly, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is confirming that the mission of the Iranian Hajj and Visit Organization which refused to sign the minutes on arrangements for Iranian pilgrims for the Year 1437, will be responsible in front of Allah Almighty and its people for inability of the Iranian citizens to perform Hajj for this year.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also clarified that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has stressed its categorical rejection to politicize Hajj rituals.

Upon directives of the Kingdom’s wise leadership, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is always ready to cooperate for serving the pilgrims and facilitating their arrival procedures.

Ambassador congratulates Victoria University on Centenary

Ambassador Al Saleh with Victorian University Chancellor George Pappas

The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia in Australia Nabil Al Saleh met with the Chancellor of the University of Victoria, Professor George Pappas, at a Ceremony to commemorate the Centenary of the founding of Victoria University in Australia. The celebration took place in the attendance of senior political, academic and diplomatic figures including a representative of the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, the Australian Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham and Minister of Education in Victoria, James Mirlino and the Saudi cultural attaché to Australia, Dr. Abdul Aziz Ibn Taleb.

Ambassador Al Saleh congratulated Mr Pappas on the occasion of the Centenary, and noted the University’s embrace of many Saudi students on scholarships. He also praised the depth of academic and cognitive relations between Saudi Arabia and Australia and pointed to the prospects of seeing Saudi Arabia’s “2030” vision to include education as a key player in the Saudi economy and in its future.

On his part, the University Chancellor George Pappas, praised the academic relations between the University of Victoria and Saudi Arabia, directing his thanks and appreciation to Ambassador Al Saleh for his participation in the Ceremony. He also noted the great cooperation and interest shown between both nations to strengthen these relations.