Foreign Relations

 

"In dealing with various matters and practices, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia adheres to well-known inviolate principles from which it has never swerved, and will never swerve, God willing. The positions it takes, whether they have to do with foreign relations or any other matter, are built on the rules and principles of religion. Such an approach, being derived from heavenly teachings as its source of inspiration, admits of no falsehood." Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd and Crown Prince Abdullah Address from Mina on Eid Al-Adha 1423 (February 10, 2003)

Geographically located at the crossroads of the world, an economic power with a stable government and thriving society, Saudi Arabia has come to be at the center of world affairs because the Kingdom has not restricted its role to defending and promoting its own national interests. As the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia holds a special place in the hearts of the one billion Muslims scattered across the globe. Guided by principles espoused by Islam and rooted in its rich Arab heritage, Saudi Arabia has, over the decades, successfully assumed the growing responsibility associated with that status.

For a nation built on Islamic principles, upholding Islam and protecting Islamic interests was the cornerstone of Saudi foreign policy under King Abdulaziz. Today, Saudi Arabia is a nation whose views are actively sought by global powers looking for a better understanding of Islamic and Arab issues. The Kingdom's diplomacy is considered a central factor in averting crises. Its mediation is solicited to resolve disputes that, if unchecked, could have reverberations far beyond the region.

Out of such concerns, Saudi Arabia began to assume an active role in international organizations. As a founding member of the United Nations, Saudi Arabia has steadily increased its participation in that organization.

During the 20th century, Saudi Arabia emerged as a unified nation and became a socioeconomic and political world leader. Guided by a foreign policy that focuses on Arab unity, Islamic solidarity and peaceful coexistence, Saudi Arabia is in the new millennium a strong advocate of peace, security and constructive cooperation throughout the world.