The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, both its government and people, is celebrating the second anniversary of the accession of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud—may God protect him—the reins of power, which falls on January 7, 2017, as the people renewed their pledge of allegiance, loyalty, and devotion, and celebrations took place throughout the Kingdom, with the streets of major cities adorned with images of the wise leadership—a display that underscores the strong bond between the leadership and the people.
Loyalty and Devotion
His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of the Interior, affirmed: “King Salman bin Abdulaziz has worked and continues to work tirelessly for Arab unity and to strengthen the bonds of Islamic solidarity, in light of the major challenges and numerous risks facing the Islamic and Arab nations. His sincere efforts have strengthened the bonds of brotherhood and areas of joint cooperation among the Gulf states.
His Highness added: ”This is a cherished occasion for the people of our noble homeland, embodying the highest ideals of loyalty and sincere devotion to a great leader who, with God’s guidance, has steered the country with firmness and determination, taking major strides toward advancement, progress, prosperity, security, tranquility, and stability, and elevating the nation’s standing at various levels through his sound wisdom and visionary leadership."
He said: ”During his prosperous reign, the pace of development has accelerated in accordance with a comprehensive national vision that addresses the requirements of the nation’s development and meets the needs of its citizens," noting that the Kingdom has achieved tangible success in countering terrorism and thwarting terrorists" plots, as well as curbing drug trafficking and the financing of terrorism, and drying up sources of support and funding for criminal activities.
Economic and Developmental Progress
For his part, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Crown Prince and Minister of Defense, summarized the two years of King Salman’s reign, saying: "Under King Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia has achieved numerous foreign policy accomplishments that have enhanced the Kingdom’s political influence and international standing. Over the past two years, the Kingdom has become a global hub, a focal point of international attention, and a destination for world leaders and heads of state seeking to strengthen mutual relations.
His Royal Highness the Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia said: The King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Action was established to extend a helping hand and provide humanitarian assistance to Arab, Islamic, and friendly nations, and to help alleviate their suffering caused by natural disasters and conflicts.
Regional Princes… Two Years of Firmness and Resolve
A number of regional princes also spoke about the achievements of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, with His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Madinah Region, on the occasion of the second anniversary of the pledge of allegiance, emphasizing that since King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud founded the Kingdom and laid its foundations, it has played a lofty and pioneering role both regionally and globally. He said that the Kingdom has distinguished itself from other nations through the strength of cohesion, connection, and unity between the ruler and the ruled, emphasizing that King Salman has, on more than one occasion, asked citizens who have an opinion, suggestion, or complaint to write to him directly, which reflects the paternalistic approach and methodology inherent in the leadership of this country."
His Royal Highness Prince Dr. Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Al-Qassim Region, also congratulated the Sovereign Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques on the occasion of the second anniversary of his accession to the throne.
His Highness the Governor of Al-Qassim said, "This is more than just a commemoration of two years of exceptional achievements for the state, the nation, and society; but rather a historic moment that we mark with the reverence and appreciation befitting King Salman bin Abdulaziz, who, through his wisdom and deep expertise in public administration, has been able to lead our country through complex international circumstances and steer it to safety.
His Highness added: "We feel pride and honor under the leadership of Salman, a man of kindness and generosity, wisdom, and insight, as his leadership has extended to our Arab and Islamic nation across all difficult issues and crises, restoring the prestige of this nation, which needed an exceptional leader who does not shy away from challenges; he is, therefore, a king of resolve, decisiveness, determination, and hope."
Citizens" Aspirations
For his part, His Royal Highness Prince Mishari bin Saud bin Abdulaziz,Governor of Al-Baha Region, on this occasion emphasized the importance of the achievements realized for Saudi citizens during the two years of King Salman bin Abdulaziz’s reign.
His Highness said that this anniversary marked a rich history of national service at the domestic level, as evidenced by the royal orders and decrees issued in the interest of the nation and its citizens across various fields, and the commitment to the welfare and comfort of the citizens."
His Highness the Governor of Al-Baha Region emphasized that the nation’s map has been marked by monumental achievements on the international stage, which will stand the test of time and be preserved in the annals of history, thereby granting the Kingdom a high and prestigious standing among the nations of the world. This was affirmed by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in the Kingdom’s support for all causes of the Arab and Islamic nations and its active and ongoing role in serving Islam and Muslims.
