(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrated its National Day, marking the 79th anniversary (according to the Hijra calendar) of the foundation of the Saudi state by King Abdulaziz Al-Saud in 1932.

“Saudi Arabia marks its National Day with its eyes toward the future,” said Saudi Ambassador to the United States Adel A. Al-Jubeir. “The Kingdom continues to work toward its development and prosperity in the global community.”

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton commended Saudi Arabia on this historic occasion. “The United States values Saudi Arabia as a close friend and ally. Ever since King Abdul Aziz and President Franklin D. Roosevelt first met aboard the USS Quincy in 1945, our two nations have united in a durable and dynamic partnership that is based on mutual respect and mutual interest. Over the years, our friendship has deepened and enhanced the security and prosperity of both our countries,” she said. “On this historic occasion, I want to salute King Abdullah for his leadership on key regional and global challenges, from championing the Arab peace initiative to working to respond to the international economic crisis.”

Coinciding with National Day, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz hosted the Inauguration Ceremony of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) today. KAUST is an international, graduate-level research university. The state-of-the-art 9,000 acre campus is located along the coast of the Red Sea in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.