The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia celebrates its 80th National Day today, marking the unification of the country by late King Abdul Aziz in 1932. Both Saudis and expatriates are all geared up to celebrate the event all over the Kingdom. A variety of events have been planned to mark the event. On the occasion of the National Day, Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior, congratulated King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques; Crown Prince Sultan, Deputy Premier, Defense and Aviation Minister and inspector general; and the Saudi people. In his address on Saudi television, Prince Naif spoke of the Kingdom's accomplishments in various fields and also highlighted the fight against terrorism. “Despite the world and particularly our region being in turmoil, the Kingdom is proud that, due to the directives of the wise leadership, it has been able to repulse the attacks against this nation's faith and stability,” he said. Clinton congratulates King In a statement issued Wednesday, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said King Abdullah's leadership on key challenges, from developing the Kingdom's institutions and economy to establishing an enduring dialogue promoting moderation and tolerance, has put Saudi Arabia and the region on a path toward a stronger, more prosperous, and more secure future. “On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on your National Day this Sept. 23.” “We also honor King Abdullah's steadfast support for the Arab Peace Initiative. This groundbreaking initiative provided a far-sighted vision for comprehensive regional peace when the King first proposed it. As we continue working to support direct talks between the Israelis and the Palestinians, the principles enshrined in the Arab Peace Initiative are more important than ever.” “As we join in celebrating this special day, we reaffirm the commitment of the United States to broaden and deepen our partnership with Saudi Arabia in the years to come. I wish all Saudis a safe and joyous National Day,” the statement said. James B. Smith, US Ambassador to the Kingdom, said in a statement: “On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I want to congratulate King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of your National Day.” “For nearly three quarters of a century, the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have been strong friends and close allies.” “On the historic occasion of your National Day, I would like to thank King Abdullah for his continuing leadership to promote economic and political stability in the region.” In the Eastern Province, more than 650 decorated cars will participate in a car rally which will cover the 60 kilometer distance from King Abdullah Park at Dammam's Corniche - along Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd Road, Dhahran Highway and King Abdullah Highway - to Al-Khobar's Corniche. The car procession will start at 3:44 P.M. Similar events have also been planned elsewhere in the Kingdom. Expatriates have offered their congratulations to Saudi citizens and expressed eagerness to also take part in the country's National Day celebrations.
