Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Policy Principles:
Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy revolves around three key principles: unity, stability, and responsibility. The kingdom seeks to promote unity among Arab Gulf countries and resolve differences through dialogue and cooperation.

Unity in the Arab Gulf:
Saudi Arabia prioritizes the unity of the Arab Gulf and its shared interests over transient differences. The kingdom has worked to forge a coalition of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and like-minded Arab and non-Arab nations to address regional challenges.

Conflict in Yemen:
Saudi Arabia has led efforts to restore the legitimate government in Yemen and prevent the usurpation of power by the Houthis and forces loyal to Ali Abdullah Saleh. The kingdom has successfully built a coalition to support this objective.

Sectarian Violence and Radicalism:
Saudi Arabia calls for unity to combat sectarian violence and radicalism, which are tearing apart societies across the Arab world, including countries like Iraq and Syria. Radical groups like ISIS and Shiite militias exploit sectarian divisions to gain loyalty and control. The unity of radicalism is an illusion that thrives on domination and control rather than harmony.

Symptom of Anarchy in Syria and Iraq:
The rise of radical groups like ISIS is a symptom of the disease of anarchy in Syria and Iraq, exemplified by Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Damascus. Russia’s airstrikes in Syria target moderate opposition forces fighting both ISIS and Assad’s regime, further complicating the situation. The international community should focus on addressing the root causes of instability in Syria and Iraq, including the removal of Bashar al-Assad and sectarian rule in Baghdad.

Sectarianism and the Fight against ISIS:
Fighting sectarianism is a complex challenge, as it thrives on enmity and division. Addressing the underlying issues in Syria and Iraq, such as the Assad regime and sectarian rule, is crucial to undermining the appeal of radical groups like ISIS.

Stability:
Saudi Arabia seeks to promote stability in the region, amid the Arab unrest and decay of regimes. The quest for unity is seen as a means to achieve safety and stability.

Responsibility:
Saudi Arabia assumes responsibility towards itself, the Middle East, the Islamic community, and the world. The kingdom takes responsibility for the custodianship of the two holy mosques and stewardship of the hajj. Saudi Arabia leads efforts to stem extremist interpretations of the Muslim faith. It advocates for the welfare of Muslims and contributes to the resettlement of refugees and assistance to Syrian refugees in neighboring countries. The kingdom supports the Palestinian people’s independence and recognizes their right to self-determination.

Advocacy:
Saudi Arabia promotes inter-sectarian dialogue and combats sectarian ideologies. It encourages the development of strong regimes and integrated civil society across the Arab world. The kingdom advocates for the dignity and independence of the Palestinian people and seeks a unified movement towards peace in Palestine. Saudi Arabia aims to mend relationships with its neighbors and work through grievances for a more productive future.

Diplomacy with Iran:
Saudi Arabia welcomes discussions on Iran’s nuclear program and the potential benefits for the Gulf region and the world. However, the kingdom cannot overlook Iran’s support for the Assad regime in Syria, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Syrian civilians. Iran’s alignment with Assad is seen as morally wrong and puts Iran on the wrong side of history.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in the Oil Industry:
Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest exporter of oil and plays a leadership role in the regulation of the oil market. The country has the reserves and infrastructure to weather a drop in prices. OPEC’s days as a collective bargaining tool are limited.

Market Forces and Oil Prices:
The drop in oil prices is a result of market forces, specifically an oversupply of oil. Shale oil producers have shut down wells and stopped developing others due to low prices. Saudi Arabia is protecting its share of the market by maintaining production levels.

Saudi Arabia’s Use of Oil:
Saudi Arabia considers oil as a resource, a tool for development, and a bargaining chip in diplomacy and war. The country uses its oil reserves to improve its society, promote political stability, and drive economic growth in the region. Saudi Arabia seeks an equitable price for oil, ensuring a balance between producer and consumer interests.

Recent Developments in Saudi Arabia:
The passing of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz was a time of sorrow for the Kingdom. King Salman succeeded as custodian of the two holy mosques, bringing stability and prosperity to the country. King Salman’s response to the Houthi takeover in Yemen demonstrated his leadership and commitment to regional stability. The continuation of the King Abdullah scholarship program reflects his faith in the potential of Saudi youth.

A Legacy of Service:
Prince Saud al-Faisal devoted 50 years of his life to serving the kingdom, the Arabs, the Muslims, and humanity as a whole, primarily as foreign minister for 40 years.

Dedication and Perseverance:
Despite being afflicted with Parkinson’s disease, Prince Saud al-Faisal remained steadfast in his work, refusing to take breaks or let the illness hinder his commitment.

Key Achievements:
Prince Saud al-Faisal played a pivotal role in significant events, including the purchase of Aramco shares, the oil embargo, preserving Egypt’s place in the Arab fold after Camp David, and ending the Lebanese Civil War and the Iran-Iraq War.

International Diplomacy:
Prince Saud al-Faisal was instrumental in galvanizing world support for Kuwait after Saddam Hussein’s invasion, convincing Gorbachev not to obstruct UN sanctions against Saddam, and advocating for the rights of the Palestinian people.

Guidance from Five Kings:
Throughout his service, Prince Saud al-Faisal was guided by the five kings he served, who provided him with unwavering support and direction.

Minute of Remembrance:
The speaker requested a moment of remembrance for King Abdullah, Prince Saud al-Faisal, and the victims of the crane accident in Mecca and the Hajj stampede.