Deputy Prime Minister and Commander of the National Guard Crown Prince Abdullah chaired yesterday the regular weekly meeting of the Council of Ministers, which again deplored Israel's aggression against the Palestinians and its policy of killing civilians and demolishing houses in the occupied Palestinian territories. The Cabinet also reiterated its call to the international community to take the necessary measures to end the bloodshed in Iraq. Crown Prince Abdullah then welcomed all those who are performing umrah (the minor pilgrimage), and urged that they be provided with all possible facilities.

Turning to domestic issues, the Cabinet passed a number of resolutions, including authorization for the Minister of Foreign Affairs or his deputy to sign a draft agreement with the Republic of Malta for cooperation in commerce, investment, technology, culture, youth and sports; and approval of the continuation of importing Palestinian products exempt from customs tariffs for a period of one year effective October 24, 2004, given the difficult circumstances facing the Palestinian people. The Cabinet also approved the start of the Eid Al-Fitr holidays in the Kingdom to be effective from the end of working hours on Wednesday, November 3, 2004.

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