Saudi- Salman: Experienced leader at the helm

(MENAFN- Arab News) Only a few hours of assuming the throne Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman demonstrated the depth of his leadership vision and his ability to make the right decisions. Saudis and the world were unanimous in their praise for the new appointments. King Salman gave a clear message to the world that Riyadh has a strong and well-versed governing system.The appointment of Prince Muqrin as the crown prince and Prince Mohammed bin Naif as the deputy crown prince a decision that gained the approval of the Allegiance Council resembled stability and continuity of the Saudi rule.Saudi Arabia is an important country but some tend to view it with ambiguity. This might sometimes open the door to wild speculations by some observers and analysts. However Saudis know that their country is stable as they have inherited customs and traditions that boost social cohesion.At the initiative of the late King Abdullah the Saudi ruling family was able to find a strong and solid mechanism to regulate the transfer of power in a quiet and smooth fashion. Members of the Allegiance Council are the sons of the founding father King Abdul Aziz and they vote on these decisions in a body that is considered the safety valve of the Saudi society protecting it from any potential disputes in the ruling family.King Salman is an enlightened man who seeks reform development and openness of thought. This became obvious since his leadership as the governor of Riyadh during which he was able to achieve a qualitative jump in Riyadh's overall development. He assumed this post since he was 20 and has governed Riyadh for more than 50 years. This experience gave him expertise in the administrative and developmental work which made him a reference in this regard. At the same time he was the closest adviser to the former Saudi kings which gave him more experience in the political field and provided him a wide network of international relations.Saudis know King Salman as a philanthropist who helps people and supports charitable work. So it is no surprise to know that he was behind many associations that are devoted to supporting humanitarian work and helping needy people. King Salman is a balanced man with a good understanding of the region's situation formulas and secrets. As an intellectual book reader and a follower of media he usually invites many writers and intellectuals to discuss ideas and opinions with them.Saudis and the ruling family have a fascination for King Salman's charisma. The king now faces internal and external challenges and most importantly the unemployment issue which the Kingdom is trying hard to battle. In light of the growing population the Kingdom also faces the threat of terrorism and extremist ideologies as the region is experiencing wars in Iraq and Syria. In the south it seems the situation is heading toward a civil war.However King Salman's expertise and strong leaders he appointed gives a clear message that the state is able to overcome the challenges. King Salman joins the administrative expertise with a strong political experience. His strong belief in reform culture and close relationship with the previous kings has given him experience in running a state.