n Nobody has a right to interfere in Kingdom's affairs RIGHT from the era of King Abdul Aziz, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has adhered to its policy of non-interference in the affairs of other nations. However, whenever it has been pushed to do otherwise it has been a positive interference and the Kingdom's efforts were invariably aimed at the best interests of these countries and their people. To cite a few examples, the Kingdom was instrumental in charting the Taif accord that reconciled warring Lebanese factions leading to an end to civil war in that country, and the rapprochement between Hamas and Fatah similarly was aimed at the greater goal of Palestinian unity. So were the fence-mending agreements in Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan and other nations. The Kingdom, obviously, does not tolerate interference in its affairs. Its leadership is prudent and confident enough to tackle any issue that might crop up in the developmental march of the country. The Kingdom is a responsible peace-loving country which is now witnessing an era of progress, security and stability under its wise leadership. Understandably, there may have been some setbacks on the path of progress. But such stray cases should not be exploited to create chaos and anarchy in the country. This point was made crystal clear by Prince Saud Al-Faisal, Foreign Minister. At a press conference in Jeddah, Prince Saud categorically warned foreign states against interfering in the affairs of the Kingdom. “Change will come through the citizens of this Kingdom and not through foreign fingers, we don't need them,” he said. “We will cut any finger that crosses into the Kingdom.” Reports suggest that some misguided Saudi youth are planning protests in the Kingdom demanding reforms despite clear messages from the authorities and religious leaders that demonstrations are un-Islamic and are not a solution to any given issue. “The called-for reform does not come via protests and (the clerics) have forbidden protests since they violate the injunctions of the Qur'an and the way of the Prophet (peace be upon him),” Prince Saud said. Clearly emphasizing that any change in the system is the prerogative of the people of the country, Prince Saud said “the principal of dialogue is the best way to address the issues facing society.” We hope that good sense will prevail on those who are trying to create ‘fitnah' in the land of the Prophet (pbuh). If they do so despite stern warnings, their act should be considered sedition and dealt with harshly. __
