|
As we have for the last 68 years, Saudi Arabians celebrate
the establishment of the modern Kingdom on September 23 this year. It was on
this day in 1932 that King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Saud united the people
of Saudi Arabia under the banner of Islam into a cohesive nation that has
withstood the test of many challenges and availed itself of great opportunities.
A benevolent leader totally committed to the teaching of
Islam and the well-being of his people, King Abdulaziz set an example for all
Saudis to emulate. His piety, integrity and absolute commitment to his people
are characteristics that have guided his sons who succeeded him as King.
Recognizing that his nation would need to adapt to the
changing times in order to prosper and thrive, King Abdulaziz built the
foundations and capable of meeting all the requirements of the rapidly
developing state.
In the decades following his rule, Saudi government has
evolved into an institution capable of meeting every need of its citizens, from
providing health care and education. To expanding and diversifying the economy,
while safeguarding the nation’s security and stability.
The rapid modernization of Saudi Arabia, in particular
since the introduction of five-year development plans 1970, led to the
re-evaluation of the country’s political and administrative systems. The
Custodian of the tow Holy Mosques King fahd bin Abdulaziz too steps to further
revitalize and streamline the political system. In 1992, he introduced the Basic
Laws of Governance, the Majlis Al-Shura (Consultative Council) and the
Provincial Councils. The following year, he announced bylaws for the Councils of
Ministers.
These
steps have made the government better prepared to deal with the requirements of
the Kingdom in the 21st century as the nation continues to surge ahead in almost
every area of human endeavor. As the economy continues its rapid diversification
and expansion, the government is realizing that privatization is the key to
continued growth and has taken a series of steps to encourage further expansion
of the Saudi private sector, as well as to attract greater foreign investment.
On
this, our national Day, we once again offer thanks to God for great blessings,
both spiritual and material, that He has granted. We do so with pride in our
achievements and an understanding that as our forebears set an example for us to
follow, so we for our younger generation who will carry the banner of Islam and
the hops of our nation the future.
|
