Manama: King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud said that corruption in all its forms and manifestations was a grave scourge that undermines societies and prevents its development and progress, stressing his country’s resolve to tackle it.
“We are determined to confront corruption through justice and resolve so that our country enables every citizen to enjoy the fruits of development,” King Salman said as he opened the fourth session of the sixth term of the Shura (Advisory) Council.
“In this context, we have decided to form a supreme anti-corruption committee headed by the crown prince. We thank God that the number of corruption suspects is limited and they do not affect the integrity of our honourable citizens, including princes, ministers, business people, employees and workers at all levels and in various capacities in the public and private sectors.”
The corruption cases do not affect the expatriate employees and investors who are a source of pride, King Salman added.
“Your country seeks to develop its present, build its future and move forward on the path of development, modernisation and continuous progress in a way that does not contradict with its values. We adhere to moderation as an approach as God ordered us, and we are proud of our values,” he said.
No room for extremists
“Our message to all is that there is no room for any extremist who is against modernisation and exploits our tolerant faith to achieve his goals. There is no place for anyone who sees our war on extremism as a way to spread immorality and exploit religious easiness to achieve his goals. We will hold accountable anyone who transgresses our values.”
King Salman added that Saudi Arabia has an influential role in the regional and international organisations and is appreciated both regionally and globally.
Such a status has enabled it to hold summits that were historic in their timing and decisions and attended by a large number of leaders of brotherly and friendly countries who set forth joint action to achieve security and stability in the region and across the world, he added.
“The Kingdom has continued to play a leading role in combating the phenomenon of terrorism and drying up its sources,” he said. Saudi Arabia is also working with its allies on confronting the tendency to interfere in the internal affairs of other states, fuel sectarian strife and undermine regional security and stability, he said.
