Crown Prince delivers annual royal address at Shoura Council opening

On behalf of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman delivered the annual royal address on Wednesday to mark the opening of the third year of the ninth session of the Shoura Council in Riyadh.

On this occasion, Shoura Council Chairman Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Al-Sheikh, on behalf of the council's officials and members, expressed his deepest gratitude to King Salman and the Crown Prince for their continued support and patronage of the council.

The chairman noted that the royal address serves as a national reference guiding the council in fulfilling its mission to serve the nation and its citizens, outlining the state's priorities and directions. He emphasized its significance as a comprehensive national document that reviews the Kingdom's policies and strategies and keeps pace with the country's rapid development.

Council performance over the past year

Al Al-Sheikh stated that during the second year of the ninth session, the council continued its legislative and oversight duties, holding 46 sessions and issuing 555 decisions covering government agency reports, regulations, bylaws, and memoranda of understanding, all contributing to improved performance and comprehensive development.

He also noted that the council's specialized committees held 376 meetings with the participation of 331 officials from relevant entities, enhancing coordination with government bodies and improving the quality of the council's outcomes.

Parliamentary diplomacy and Saudi Arabia's regional role

He added that the council was active in parliamentary diplomacy, organizing 135 domestic and international parliamentary activities, including participations, meetings, and visits, which helped strengthen ties with other councils and parliaments and facilitated the exchange of expertise.

He explained that the leadership's support enabled the council to expand its presence and partnerships in regional and international parliamentary forums and organizations, allowing it to effectively address issues of mutual interest.

He also affirmed that Saudi Arabia's presidency of the current session of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union and its hosting of related events reflect the Kingdom's commitment to supporting joint Arab action and enhancing the effectiveness of parliamentary diplomacy as a means of fostering dialogue, consultation, and coordination on Arab issues.

The Shoura Council chairman concluded by reaffirming the council's commitment to its national mission, the ongoing development of the legislative system, and its support for the Kingdom's comprehensive development and regional and international parliamentary presence.