AlHijjah 1, 1432, Oct 28, 2011, SPA -- President Barack Obama of the United States (U.S.) congratulated today the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the naming of Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz as Crown Prince and Deputy Premier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In a statement released by the White House Press Office, Obama said: "I congratulate the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and the Saudi people on the selection of Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud as Crown Prince and Deputy Premier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia." "Crown Prince Naif has served his nation with dedication and distinction for more than 35 years as Minister of Interior, and as Second Deputy Premier since 2009. We in the United States know and respect him for his strong commitment to combating terrorism and supporting regional peace and security," the U.S. president said. "The United States looks forward to continuing our close partnership with Crown Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz in his new position as we strengthen the deep and longstanding friendship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."