Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz has concluded his state visit to Britain, the first by a Saudi King in 20 years.
Last night, the King attended a banquet hosted by the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman John Stuttard. The King was welcomed at the Guildhall with a royal salute by a guard of honor before entering the reception, which was attended by dignitaries and members of the British royal family.
In remarks at the banquet, King Abdullah highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing economy. He noted recent reforms that the Kingdom has enacted to attract foreign investment and urged British businesses to benefit from the opportunities that exist now in the Saudi market.
Earlier in the day, King Abdullah met with Prime Minister Gordon Brown for talks about counterterrorism, Iran, the Middle East peace process, Iraq and Lebanon, as well as bilateral cooperation. The two leaders also witnessed the signing of Saudi-British agreements on the avoidance of double taxation, technical and vocational training, and political consultation.
The King met separately with Conservative leader David Cameron and former Prime Minister Tony Blair. He also visited Prince Charles, heir to the throne, at Clarence House to discuss activities undertaken by the prince’s charities in Saudi Arabia.
King Abdullah will continue his 13-day official tour with visits to Italy, Germany and Turkey.
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