Lebanese issue, Prince Sultan said the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a friend of all Arabs and Muslims, and it will spare no effort in the service of the Arab and Muslim causes. Prince Sultan refuted the reports which said that the Saudi women are deprived of their rights, and said 'Islam has recognized the rights of the women, and will follow the teachings Islam in this respect'. Prince Sultan expressed optimism about the future of the country and said the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah has made clear the Kingdom's policy either through the 8th five-year development plan or through the State's general budget. Prince Sultan appraised the significant role being played by members of the Shoura (consultative) Council, and said 'we don't oppose the idea of electing members of the Shoura, but the public interest makes it necessary for the people to stand on one line with their leadership'. 'Anyway, we have had the experience of the municipal elections', he noted. As regards the driving of car by women, Prince Sultan said 'we will study the issue when it is demanded by the fathers, husbands and brothers'. --MORE 12 02 Local Time 09 02 GMT
