December 2002
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has sent its condolences to the family and friends of Congressman Wayne Owens, who during his four terms as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives proudly served the people of Utah. He was also a steady and strong advocate for peace in the Middle East.
Congressman Owens, who traveled to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia often and was a good friend to many, helped launch the Center for Middle East Peace and Economic Cooperation, an organization that has continued to lead efforts to find peace in the Middle East.
Books and Study Guides to Be Removed of Intolerant Teachings
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has approved budgets for the construction of 780 new schools as well as improvements to another 380 schools. Part of this funding will improve and equip a number of educational facilities, such as supplying schools with computers, laboratory tools and other devices. The funding will also provide maintenance to existing schools. In addition, money has been allocated to update books and curriculum.
The Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Dr. Ali Al-Namlah, says that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia does not provide charitable contributions in order to promote radicalism.
According to Minister Al-Namlah, the tenets of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah (the Prophet's teachings) have always called for moderation.
He said that charitable giving is designed to help those in need and that the Kingdom does not interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries.
In an official letter to Saudi religious leaders, Shaikh Saleh Al-Ashaikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, said restrictions have been put in place to prohibit unauthorized persons from making speeches at mosques. The order, distributed as part of a new program for the care of mosques and their workers, warned speakers at mosques against making provocative speeches and inciting people.
The letter said that mosques are meant only for prayer, guidance and other pious activities and should not be used as political platforms.
The Government of Saudi Arabia today revealed a number of substantial legal and regulatory changes enacted over the past year to counter terrorism. Important steps have recently been taken to control charitable funds, prevent money laundering, and improve multi-lateral cooperation. In cooperation with the United States and other countries, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been on the forefront of the war on terrorism. Today’s announcement was made to correct misperceptions about the Kingdom in this area.