The Council of Ministers has lauded the decision of King Abdullah, Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, to establish four new universities in Dammam, Kharj, Shaqra and Majmah. Several specialized colleges have been affiliated to the new universities. The Council meeting, presided over by King Abdullah here Monday, said the directive for the new university manifests the Monarch's keen interest in the development of education in the Kingdom. The Cabinet hoped that the new colleges would b e beneficial in producing a professional generation capable of contributing to the country's development and progress. The Cabinet has authorized president of the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology or anyone he authorizes to discuss with the French side the possibility of signing a cooperation draft agreement between the Kingdom and France for development of the utilization of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Abdul Aziz Khoja, Minister of Culture and Information, said King Abdullah extended his felicitations to the Saudi citizens and Arab and Islamic countries on the advent of the holy month of Ramadan. He said the Monarch urged the people to feel the spiritual aspect of this holy month and devote themselves to worshipping Allah and exercise compassion and tolerance as per the valued traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Monarch also briefed the Council on his talks, consultations and contacts with some of the world leaders and their envoys during the past week. The Council of Ministers also approved the continuation of Article I and II of the Cabinet decision No. 7 allowing import of Palestinian commodities and products for a period of one year.
