Ain-Al-Yaqeen - February 10, 2006

		February 10, 2006

THE CUSTODIAN OF THE TWO HOLY MOSQUES CONCLUDES HIS ASIAN TOUR WITH A VISIT TO PAKISTAN.
A SAUDI-PAKISTANI SUMMIT REVIEWS THE ENHANCEMENT OF BILATERAL RELATIONS AND REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS.
KING ABDULLAH: WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO ESTABLISHING A TRUE PARTNERSHIP FOR THE BENEFIT OF OUR PEOPLE.
MUSHARRAF: KING ABDULLAH IBN ABDUL AZIZ AL SAUD HAS ALWAYS BEEN A TRUE AND SINCERE FRIEND OF PAKISTAN.
THE KINGDOM AND PAKISTAN AGREE ON ENHANCING STRATEGIC RELATIONS AND WORK TOWARDS SOLVING ISSUES IN THE REGION ACCORDING TO THE INTERNATIONAL LEGACY.
THE TWO SIDES EXPRESS THEIR HOPE THAT HAMAS WILL FORM A GOVERNMENT WHICH PRESERVES THE LEGITIMATE RIGHTS OF THE PALESTINIANS, SAFEGUARD THEIR INTERESTS AND WORK FOR PROGRESS IN THE PEACE PROCESS.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz and President General Pervez Musharraf co-chaired official talks at the Aiwan-e-Sadr (presidential palace). The talks were attended by the official delegations of the Two countries.

At the outset of the talks, Musharraf welcomed the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz and his accompanying delegation and said Pakistani government and people are delighted with the visit of the King to Pakistan.

On his part, King Abdullah thanked the PakistanI President, government and people for their warm hospitality.

The two leaders have agreed to reinforce their multi-faceted ties through increased cooperation.

They also discussed Islamic and international issues of common concern led by Palestinian issue and the current situation in Iraq.

On expanding bilateral commerce and investment relations, President Musharraf saw a vast scope for improvement in a host of mutually beneficial areas.

King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz expressed agreement with the President and said the Saudi entrepreneurs would be encouraged to explore more opportunities for enhancing trade and economic ties.

President Musharraf also briefed the distinguished guest about Pakistan's efforts for establishment of durable peace in South Asia through resolution of outstanding issues with India including Kashmir.

Welcoming the Saudi leader, President Musharraf said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are bound in a fraternal relationship rooted in history, culture and faith.

He expressed appreciation to the King for Saudi Arabia's timely assistance in the wake of October 8, 2005 earthquake catastrophe.

In an address at a banquet hosted in his honor by the Pakistani President, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz said: "The relationship between Pakistan and the Kingdom transcends friendship and is genuine and steadfast alliance in good times and in bad. Our visit today is but the symbol of depth and strength of this relationship.

The bonds of the Muslim brotherhood are the solid foundation upon which our relationship rests along with the cooperative ventures in the economic and cultural fields and mutual investment, which we hope this visit will contribute to strengthening. We witness with great admiration Pakistan's scientific and economic achievements and will go to establishing a true partnership.

"We will look forward to establishing a true partnership for the benefit of both our people and I wish at this point to note that large contribution of approximately one million Pakistani nationals living in the Kingdom to the development and prosperity of both nations.

Pakistan's historic and honourable position regarding the issue of Palestine is a source of pride for every Arab and Muslim. We hope that this position would contribute to the realization of the just settlement that ensures the rights of our Palestinians brothers and leads to permanent peace. We appreciate your keenness for peace in our region and we in turn are keen about your region does not become subject of destructive force and it was from this basis that we expressed during our visit to India our hope that talks between the two neighbouring countries will achieve the desired result," King Abdullah said.

King Abdullah said he would like to reiterate our hope that a just settlement can be achieved that protects the legitimate rights and leads to regional stability.

On his part, President Musharraf said, "I have no doubts that Your Majesty's visit to India would encourage the peace process. Your strong and constant commitment towards the resolution of the Kashmir dispute reflects your abiding support for just causes and your deep concern and compassion for Muslims in distress and struggling for their inalienable rights."

The President said that Pakistan's neighbourhood has remained disturbed for decades because of the conflict in Afghanistan and the longstanding Kashmir dispute.

Pakistan, he said, supports the government of President Karzai and is contributing to international efforts for rehabilitation and reconstruction in Afghanistan.

"We are also working for an environment of peace in South Asia and are engaged in a sincere effort to resolve the Kashmir dispute that has been at the heart of conflict and tension between Pakistan and India. We believe that improved relations between the two countries and a conducive international environment provides a unique opportunity to address this longstanding issue in a manner acceptable to all parties especially the people of Kashmir."

He said that the turmoil in Iraq and the sufferings of its people are a source of deep concern and anguish for all of us.

Pakistan, Musharraf said, attaches great importance to Iraq's sovereignty and territorial integrity. There is need for a new initiative to help the political process in Iraq for early return to normalcy, he added.

"We reaffirm our common commitment to fight terrorism that poses a danger to all faiths and all societies. Nothing can justify disruption of stability, progress and development in a society and destruction of innocent lives. It is also painful to see that wanton acts of terrorism committed by a few misguided individuals have maligned our noble faith of peace, tolerance and compassion."

"More than ever before, we need to work for harmony amongst diverse faiths and cultures at the global level and to counter prejudice against Islam and Muslim societies. At the same time, we need to look within and root out the bane of extremism from our societies through education and reforms," the President said.

He said there is an urgent need to heal the festering wounds of Palestine and Kashmir that have caused so much pain and sufferings among the Muslims. Durable peace and tranquillity in the Middle East demands a just and honourable solution of the Palestinian issue that has been the objective of many international endeavours.

"King Abdullah's initiative in Beirut more than three yours ago defined the essentials for peace based on realism and justice. Nothing should be allowed to derail efforts for vacation of Palestinian territories and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State.

The evolving political situation in the area must be turned into an opportunity to realize the objective of the two states of Palestine and Israel living side by side within secure borders."

President Musharraf said that in the challenging circumstances of our times the strong bonds of friendship and brotherhood between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are a great blessing of Allah Almighty.

"Our mutual trust, understanding, friendship and cooperation are not just a source of abiding strength and inspiration for us but a vital factor contributing to peace, stability and development in our region. Inshallah, together we will continue our endeavours for promoting the collective interests of the Islamic Ummah and for the fulfilment of the shared commitment of our people."

"We are living in the uncertain and difficult times. If we look around, every major international crisis and conflict is linked to the Islamic world. The old conflicts of Palestine in the Middle East and Kashmir in South Asia continue to foster. The Makkah Summit had clearly pronounced on these issues and agreed on a collective approach outlined in the Makkah declaration."

The President said, "We believe that your strength is our strength and I am confident that this feeling is mutual. We deeply appreciate the contribution that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been making towards our economic development especially through investment. It will remain our endeavour to promote our multi-faceted cooperation. Your Majesty's visit will provide now impetus and raise our comprehensive and strategic partnership to new high levels."

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud arrived on a two-day state visit to Pakistan at an invitation of President Pervez Musharraf of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

At Islamabad International Airport, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques was received by President Pervez Musharraf; Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz; Chief of Pakistan's Senate Senator Mian Somoro; Chief of Protocol Nazeer Hussein; Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Ali Asseri; Pakistan's Ambassador to the Kingdom Abdul Aziz Mirza; ministers, Regional Governors and ministers; Ambassadors of OIC accredited to Pakistan and staff members of the Saudi embassy in Islamabad.

Then President Musharraf accompanied King Abdullah to the presidential guest house. Along the way from the airport to the guest house, groups of Pakistani nationals broke into chants of "welcome, welcome King Abdullah", carrying his photographs and welcoming placards and banners with the Saudi national flag hoisting on top of neighbouring buildings.

After arrival at the venue, President Musharraf bade the King temporary farewell, wishing him a good stay in Pakistan.

King Abdullah was accompanied by his official delegation who were with him during the previous legs of the current tour which also took him to China, India, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud and President General Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan held talks at Pakistan's Prime Minister's palace in Islamabad.

King Abdullah was received by Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and a number of officials.

On the Saudi side, the meeting was attended by Prince Saud Al-Faisal, the Foreign Minister, and on the Pakistani side, it was attended by Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and Foreign Minister Khorsheed Mahmoud Gosoori.

During the meeting, they completed discussion of the topics raised in the previous meeting between the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the president.

Then five bilateral agreements were signed in the presence of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the President.

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and four agreements to enhance bilateral cooperation in various spheres, officials said.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz, President General Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz were present as the concerned Saudi and Pakistani ministers put their signatures on the agreements at the Prime Minister's House.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal and his Pakistani counterpart Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri inked the MoU on Bilateral Political Consultations between foreign ministries of the Two countries.

Saudi Labour Minister Ghazi Ibn Abdul Rahman Al-Gosaibi and Education Minister Lt-Gen (retd) Javed Ashraf signed the agreement on Technical Cooperation Programme for Cooperation in the field of Technical Education and Vocational Training between Pakistan's Education Ministry and General Organization for Technical Education and Vocational Training in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Minister of Finance Ibrahim Ibn Abdul Rahman Al-Assaf and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr. Salman Shah inked the agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Tax Evasion.

Saudi Minister of Culture and Information Iyad Ibn Amin Madani and Education Minister Javed Ashraf inked the agreement on Programme of Educational and Scientific Cooperation between the Pakistan's Education Ministry and Saudi Higher Education Ministry.

President of King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology Dr. Saleh Ibn Abdul Rahman Al-Athel and Science and Technology Minister Nouraiz Shakoor signed the agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation between the Two countries.

Then King Abdullah graced a lunch party held in his honor by Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and attended by President Musharraf and the official delegations of the two sides.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz, and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz expressed their determination to further strengthen the existing Saudi-Pakistani friendly and brotherly relations in all spheres, an official statement said.

Aziz received King Abdullah at the Prime Minister's House as the latter arrived there. They held talks. The Premier hosted a luncheon in honor of the Saudi Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques on the second and last day of his visit to Pakistan.

Later, President General Pervez Musharraf also joined the meeting between King Abdullah and Shaukat Aziz.

The Two sides held wide-ranging talks on all aspects of the Pak-Saudi relations in various fields as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest including Pak-India peace process evolving security situation, Afghanistan, Iranian nuclear issue, Iraq situation, revitalization of the OIC and other issues, officials said.

King Abdullah expressed his heart-felt condolences and sympathies with the people and government of Pakistan on the devastation of earthquake.

He said Saudi Arabia has extended all possible support for relief and rehabilitation efforts, adding that the Kingdom will continue its assistance for reconstruction activities.

The Prime Minister briefed the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques about the latest position of the ongoing Pakistani-Indian talks and said Pakistan wants peaceful resolution of all outstanding issues with India including the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir for ensuring durable peace and security in the region.

Shaukat Aziz briefed King Abdullah about the economic reforms launched during the last six years and said that through these reforms Pakistan has achieved tremendous results and gained macro-economic stability.

He said the government has introduced investment friendly policies and Pakistan is now a best destination for the foreign investors, who can invest here with full confidence in all sectors of economy particularly construction, oil and gas, agriculture, telecommunication, energy and information technology.

He said Pakistan is appreciative of Saudi investment and will welcome more of it for its development and progress.

The two sides agreed to further strengthen political relations, increase bilateral economic and commercial ties and enhance people to people contacts.

President Pervez Musharraf conferred Pakistan's highest civil award, "Nishan-e-Pakistan," on Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz for his immense contribution in solidifying Saudi-Pakistani relations in all fields, said an official statement.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, members of King Abdullah's delegation, Pakistan's federal ministers, armed forces top brass and senior officials attended the ceremony, held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr (presidential palace) in Islamabad.

The citation read out before the conferment of the award said:

"Khadim Al-Haramain A-Sharifain King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al-Saud has always been a true and sincere friend of Pakistan. The government and people of Pakistan deeply cherish the profound consideration and affection that His Majesty has always demonstrated for Pakistan and its people.

His Majesty has a special place of honor in the hearts of the people of Pakistan. He embodies the spiritual values, which bind our two countries in an abiding relationship.

Under the sagacious guidance of His Majesty, the relations between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have grown from strength to strength. His Majesty's government has stood by Pakistan at all times. The generous contribution of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the economic and social uplift of Pakistan is deeply appreciated. His Majesty's steadfast support on issues of vital concern will always be remembered by the people of Pakistan.

His Majesty is an outstanding statesman of our times who has dedicated his life for advocating international peace and amity. His Majesty's commitment is the promotion of just causes of the Muslim Ummah and the well-being of the Muslims around the world that has earned him a position of pre-eminence within the Islamic world. His Majesty's leadership is critical in transforming the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and a torch-bearer for the future of the Ummah.

In recognition of the outstanding contribution of Khadim Al-Harmain Al-Sharifain King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud to the development of greater understanding and cooperation between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as an expression of the high esteem in which he is held by the people of Pakistan, and for his tireless services for the unity and progress of the Ummah, the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been pleased to confer on His Majesty the highest Civil Award of Nishan-i-Pakistan."

Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Ali Ibn Awadh Asseri has said that King Abdullah's visit embodies the deep and strong historical and friendly ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

In a statement to the Saudi Press Agency, Asseri said that the talks held by the Saudi and Pakistani leaders had positive impact on the relations between the Two countries.

He added that the signing of the commercial agreements by the two sides is considered a step forward to achieve the targeted ambitions, pointing out that the visit will be fruitful and that the economic and cultural relations will be further bolstered.

Also, Asseri hailed the preparations made by the government and people of Pakistan to welcome King Abdullah.

He said that King Abdullah's contributions to the enhancement of the Saudi-Pakistani ties are fascinating and that everybody knows how close are the Pakistani government and people to King Abdullah.

As customary when a king or head of state visits Pakistan, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud planted a tree at Shakarparian hill overlooking the capital, Islamabad.

On his way to the venue, King Abdullah and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz saw a horse show and later eagles show. The custom of planting the tree was attended by a number of government officials.

Pakistan's Senate (Upper House of Parliament), unanimously passed a resolution, welcoming Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz, to Pakistan.

Leader of the House Wasim Sajjad moved the resolution, which said this House welcomes His Majesty to Pakistan and the people of Pakistan have the highest respect and affection for His Majesty.

The resolution said His Majesty's visit symbolizes strong brotherly relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, who are tied together by links of history, religion and culture.

According to the resolution, this House recognizes that the government and people of Saudi Arabia have given the highest importance to the interests of Pakistan and its people.

The resolution said this House is confident that his Majesty's visit would further solidify the already strong relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

This resolution may be sent to His Majesty through the Saudi Ambassador in Islamabad. A copy of the resolution will also be sent to the Chairman of Saudi Shoura (Consultative) Council.

Pakistan's leading newspapers published special supplements last Wednesday to mark the visit of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz to Pakistan.

The special editions carried large photographs of King Abdullah, highlighting his life and achievements for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Muslim Ummah, and his love for Pakistan.

"Warm Welcome to Khadim Al-Haramain Al-Sharifain His Majesty King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al-Saud; The life of Khadim Al-Harmain Al-Sharifain; A Model of Islamic Solidarity: Pakistan-Saudi Relations; Long Live Pakistani-Saudi Friendship; Saudi Arabia - The Heartland of Islam; Saudi Aid to the Developing World; Leading role in serving the suffering humanity; and The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on way to Progress," are some of the headlines in the supplements, published by the English and Urdu languages dailies.

Besides, all newspapers carried the curtain raisers of King Abdullah's visit on their front pages with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' photographs.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz departed Islamabad after concluding his two-day visit to Pakistan.

President General Pervez Musharraf, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, several federal ministers, top military officials and diplomats saw off King Abdullah at the Islamabad International Airport.

Following the state visit of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud to Pakistan, the two sides issued the following joint statement:

"The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia held historic meetings with the President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan General, Pervez Musharraf, and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, during his state visit to Pakistan on 1-2 February 2006 corresponding to 2-3 Muharram 1427H.

The great warmth and cordiality accorded to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his accompanying delegation, reflects the brotherly relations between the two countries and the deepest respect and esteem in which the government and people of Pakistan hold towards the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The two sides exchanged views and had in-depth comprehensive discussions that covered a wide-range of bilateral regional and international issues of mutual interest. The talks were held in an atmosphere of warmth and cordiality and were marked by commonality of views and fraternal understanding, which have been the hallmark of Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations.

President Pervez Musharraf reiterated his deep gratitude for the prompt and continuous relief assistance that the government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had provided for the earthquake victims through emergency relief assistance ordered by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Furthermore, President Pervez Musharraf expressed his gratitude for the Saudi pledge to assist in rebuilding the earthquake- stricken areas through the Saudi Development Fund to finance housing, road, education and health projects.

Based on the common historic relations, friendship and mutual understanding rooted in the unity of Islamic faith which binds the government and people of the two countries, conferring upon these relations continuity, durability and positive impact on regional peace and stability which must not be underestimated;

Realizing the interlinkage between the security and stability of the Arab region and South Asia, and their keen interest to preserve such security and stability;

Committed to explore future prospects of the strategic relations between the two countries, to ensure their continuous solidarity in the service of their respective peoples and the entire Muslim Ummah;

Affirming the commitment of the two parties to undertake this historic responsibility, the two leaders decided on the following:

At the level of bilateral relations, the two leaders expressed satisfaction over the growing cooperation between the two countries and renewed their commitment to reinforce bilateral cooperation in trade and investments.

In this regard, the two leaders welcomed the signing of five bilateral agreements between the two countries including the Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations; Agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation; Agreement on Cooperation in Science and Technology, and Cooperation Program in the field of Technical Education and Vocational Training.

The two sides expressed their confidence that these agreements would further cement bilateral relations in the respected areas.

The two sides agreed to exchange frequent visits at all levels to enhance mutual understanding and friendship, and deepened development of steady cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, education and investment.

They agreed to expand and facilitate investment and joint ventures especially in energy and infrastructure. Both sides look forward to the upcoming joint investment conference which will be organized by the Saudi-Pakistani Investment Company during the first half of this year to explore new areas of joint investments.

Both sides underlined the importance of encouraging the private sector in their countries to explore the opportunities that each other's potentials provide for mutual benefits and interests.

The two sides agreed to convene frequent and regular meetings of the Bilateral Joint Commission, which will be responsible for the following-up of the implementation of what has been agreed upon during this visit.

The two leaders emphasized that terrorism represents a palpable threat to all humanity, and that there is a need to intensify and coordinate bilateral, regional and international cooperation to combat terrorism and to eradicate its root causes.

Moreover, they agreed to intensify cooperation to fight the menace of terrorism and other international crimes such as money laundering, drugs trafficking and arm smuggling in a sustained and comprehensive manner.

The two countries shall make continuous efforts for an early realization of the proposals to conclude a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism which is before the UN General Assembly, and the setting up of an International Counter Terrorism held in Riyadh in February 2005 as proposed by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

In the field of political cooperation, both sides exchanged views on regional and international developments and affirmed their adherence to the principles of international legality and the importance of maintaining international peace and stability.

The two sides agreed to work together towards resolving outstanding conflicts in their region, in accordance with the relevant principles.

President Musharraf briefed the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques on the on-going dialogue between Pakistan and India. The two leaders agreed on the necessity to reach early resolution of all outstanding issues between Pakistan and India, especially the issue of Kashmir, through negotiations.

On the issue of Palestine, both parties recognize the importance of the last Palestinian elections which came in response to the demands of important segments of the international community.

Both sides urged the acceptance of the result of these elections, as they reflect the free will of the Palestinian people, and called for a wise and objective dealing with these results and avoid premature judgments and hasty conclusions.

The two sides expressed their hope that Hamas will form a government which preserves the legitimate rights of the Palestinians, safeguard their interests and work for progress in the peace process.

Both sides agreed that durable peace in the Middle East depends on an early resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They emphasized the importance of the Beirut Peace Initiative and the Road Map. The complementarity between the two plans is seen by both sides as the best way to reinvigorate the peace process and pave the way for the establishment of an independent and viable Palestinian State living in peace, security and prosperity within secure borders side by side with Israel.

With regard to the situation in Iraq, both sides expressed their hope that the evolving political process, would result in the establishment of a government capable of assuring Iraq's unity, territorial integrity and prosperity without foreign interventions.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the outcome of the Makkah Islamic Summit and reaffirmed their commitment to reform the OIC in order for it to become an effective forum to advance the collective interest of the Muslim world, and to cooperate in the implementation of the ten year plan which was adopted by the conference."

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz arrived in Kuwait for a brief visit.

At Kuwait International Airport, he was received by Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait; Jassem Mohammed Al Khorafi, Speaker of the Nation's Assembly; Sheikh Salim Al-Ali Al Sabah, Commander of the National Guard; Sheikh Mubarak Abdullah Al Ahmed Al Sabah; Sheikh Jaber Abdullah Al Jaber Al Sabah,; Sheikh Faisal Al Saud Al Sabah; Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, First Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior; Sheikh Misha'al Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Deputy Commander of the National Guard; Sheikh Nasser Mohammed Al Ahmad Al Sabah, Chief of the Emiri Court; Sheikh Salim Sabah Al Nasser Al Sabah; Sheikh Jaber Al Mubarak Al Hamad Al Sabah, Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense; Mohammed Daifullah Sharar, Deputy Premier, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs and Minister of State for Parliament Affairs; Kuwait Ambassador to the Kingdom Sheikh Jaber Duaij Al Sabah; and Saudi Charge d'affaires in Kuwait Mohammed Abdul-Haq.

At the VIP lounge, King Abdullah was also received by a number members of the Al Sabah ruling family, ministers and senior officials.

During the meeting and on behalf of the Kingdom's government and people, King Abdullah congratulated Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah on assuming power of the State of Kuwait, wishing him success and the people of Kuwait continuous progress and prosperity.

On his part, Sheikh Sabah thanked the king for his noble feelings and those of the government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Then the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques left Kuwait for Riyadh.

At Kuwait International Airport, he was seen off by Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, other Sheikhs, the Speaker of the parliament, ministers and senior officials.

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Ibn Abdul Aziz arrived in Riyadh coming from Kuwait, his last leg of a tour of several nations that also took him to the Peoples Republic of China, Republic of India, Kingdom of Malaysia and Islamic Republic of Pakistan at invitations of their leaders.

At King Khalid International Airport, King Abdullah was received by Crown Prince Sultan Ibn Abdul Aziz, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Aviation and Inspector General ; Prince Mohammed Ibn Abdullah Ibn Juluwe; Prince Fahd Ibn Mashari Ibn Juluwe; Prince Mit'eb Ibn Abdul Aziz, Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs; Prince Naif Ibn Abdul Aziz, the Minister of Interior; Prince Abdullah Ibn Mohammed Ibn Abdul Aziz Al Saud; Prince Sattam Ibn Abdul Aziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region; Prince Abdul Majeed Ibn Abdul Aziz, Governor of Makkah Region; other princes; ministers; senior civil and military officials and a group of citizens. King Abdullah was accompanied by his official delegation.