Issa confirmed the important role of arbitration in the justice process, noting that a new arbitration system is currently being functioning in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He said judiciary never intervenes in arbitration and it only monitors whether an arbitration rule is violated, explaining that the Kingdom's system guarantees fair defense for the accused. When cordial settlement and arbitration is not working in a specific case, then justice rolls. The Minister said no exceptional litigation takes place outside the framework of the judiciary power and that everybody could attend the sessions which will be announced, including the trials of those accused in criminal cases. He highlighted the six-year long specialized courts system, citing public courts, criminal courts, commercial courts, religious courts, labor courts etc. He vowed that, compared with other countries and major powers, the rate of crime in Saudi Arabia is very low, citing the application of Sharia law. He told reporters that a British lady whose husband was killed in a terrorist crime in Saudi Arabia several years ago told him when he met with her during his current trip that she supports the capital penalty. He said penalty in Saudi Arabia is not violent but firm and strong. He highlighted women rights in Saudi Arabia, citing their right to join the Saudi version of parliament (Shura Council) and the right to occupy seats in Municipal councils as well other high-ranking positions in the State.
