The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that providing assistance to the citizens in case of arrests outside the Kingdom is their right, asking all citizens to contact the nearest embassy of the Kingdom. The Ministry stressed that for one to remain silent in case of arrest or interrogation and to demand the presence of the Embassy's lawyer is one's legal right and the best way to avoid coercion and errors some foreign authorities may commit. The Ministry emphasized that the function of the Saudi diplomatic missions is to protect Saudi citizens abroad and a means to seek justice for them in case justice is not rendered or procedures are slow, or authorities are lax in pursuing one's assailants. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that citizens should be aware that one be a witness has negative legal consequences; it called on all to be cautious in such case and to discuss such matters with the Embassy's lawyer. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that the Kingdom's Embassies and Consulates are strong shields for every citizen in case one's rights are violated or one is targeted or discriminated against abroad.
