Saudi Arabian efforts to protect regional, Arab interests lauded

The Arab Parliament has formed a special committee to address Palestinian issues, Dr Mishaal Al Salami, the parliament’s speaker and a Saudi Shura Council member, has announced. He also praised the work of Saudi Arabia in the Arab world, noting that the Kingdom is a pioneer in initiatives and support for the interests of Arab countries and joint Arab action. He said that the decision to form the committee reflects the fact that Palestine is the primary, pivotal and fundamental issue in the parliament.

 During a meeting of the academic dialogue table at King Abdul Aziz University’s Faculty of Economics and Administration, Al Salami said that the committee is studying three files, and highlighted the important role played by King Salman in adopting initiatives for the benefit of the state of Palestine and its people. He also said that Riyadh will host the 2019 Arab-African Summit, and was optimistic about the prospects of closer relations between Arab and African countries at all levels.

Dr Al Salami went on to commend a regional anti-terrorism workshop, which included representatives from the European Union, that issued 31 statements of solidarity with Arab countries in the fight against extremism and terrorism. He added that the Arab Parliament will support any projects that confront and combat ideas and projects that spread terror and extremist views.

The speaker also stressed the parliament’s support for the legitimate authorities in Yemen and for the coalition forces in the country, noting that they are the guarantors of Arab national security. On the subject of the occupied Golan Heights and the recent decision by US President Donald Trump to recognise it as a part of Israel, Al Salami described a Saudi statement denouncing the American move as the strongest about the issue.