solution to the crisis. As the military conflict started, Saudi Arabia continued its diplomatic efforts to ensure the territorial integrity of Iraq, rebuilding of the infrastructure, restoration of security, and the speedy end of the occupation by the coalition forces after paving the way for an Iraqi representative government. Second there was the deteriorating situation and the dangerous escalation and violence in the occupied Palestinian territories. Here again Saudi Arabia joined the International community in supporting all the initiatives aimed at revival of the peace process including the ‘Road Map’ and the Arab initiative that was proposed by Saudi Arabia and endorsed by the Arab countries at the Beirut Summit.

On the domestic front, a major restructuring of the government took place in order to better serve our citizens, revitalise the economy, and reform the educational system. In the new Cabinet that was formed in May, a new ministry was established for Telecommunication and Information Technology, Trade and Industry were merged in one ministry, and Economy was moved from the Ministry of Finance to the Ministry of Planning. In line with the concerted effort to liberalise, expand, and diversify the Saudi economy, many significant steps were taken. The tourism plan was launched, more fields were open for foreign investment, the telecommunication sector was privatised, and The Saudi Shoura (Consultative) Council voted on the Capital Market Law providing a legal and regulatory framework for the Saudi Stock Exchange and creating an environment of total accountability and transparency for financial activities. The goal is to promote foreign and private sector investment, especially in certain key areas of the Saudi economy, including the transportation sector, the gas sector, and the electricity sector.

The horrific terrorist bombings, which took place in Riyadh, did not succeed in affecting our resolve to root out terrorists and go after those who preach any deviant ideology that encourages and feeds terrorism, even if this deviant ideology tries to masquerade as pious because our true great religion has nothing to do with terrorism or even the idea of terrorism. These terrible events helped unite the Saudi population who stood firmly behind the government as it moved to eradicate this evil from our society. The condemnation of these criminal acts expressed by the friendly Singaporean government and people was greatly appreciated by the government and the people of Saudi Arabia.

...............................................................................................................