beings. He noted that since 14 centuries, the wave of god-fearing, worshipping and belief began their march. He pointed out that development had led to the emergence of one of the most important civilizations. "In the Kingdom, we find the most holiest land to which the Muslims throughout the world turn their hearts when they perform prayers." Sarkozy lauded the great role being played by the Kingdom under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz for the service of the just causes in the Middle East, and for combating terrorism as well as for narrowing gaps among the world cultures. He highlighted the great steps made by the King to update the systems in the Kingdom so as to make them conform with the developments of the modern time. "The role of balance and moderation being played by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is not only important at the regional arena but also at the international arena, and this role is not only significant for the short-term but also for the long-term. He cited the initiative of the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz which was approved by the Arab summit in Beirut in 2002 and the meeting of King Abdullah with the Pope of the Vatican during his recent visit to Italy. "Whenever King Abdullah meets the Pope, then that will have a great significance to the peace and to the future of civilization, and such a development is more important than several international conferences," he said. " This important initiative of the King has made it clear to the world that the time is not the time for conflict for civilizations and cultures. The King's initiative has also made it clear that it is an essential matter to be open to the others and to the world." The Kingdom's policy and the works of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques reflect his desire for enhancing openness to the world. --MORE
