(MENAFN - Arab News) Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah yesterday swore in Prince Muqrin as second deputy premier, Prince Saud bin Naif as governor of the Eastern Province, and Prince Faisal bin Salman as Madinah governor and urged them to stand by truth and justice.
King Abdullah congratulated the princes on their new appointments. "We wish you all the best in carrying out your duties. The most important thing is you should make your people happy by upholding truth and justice, even against your son or brother."
The king added: "Achieving satisfaction of people is difficult but truth is truth and we should establish justice. It's a great honor for you to serve the religion and nation."
The new officials thanked the king for reposing confidence in them and said they would follow his directives.
Crown Prince Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense, Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal and other princes attended the oath-taking ceremony.
The three officials pledged in the name of God that they would carry out their official duties sincerely and honestly, without disclosing state secrets and protecting the Kingdom's interests and systems.
Prince Muqrin, who is also the king's adviser and special envoy, commended the reforms introduced by King Abdullah, adding that the reforms would continue for the progress and prosperity of the Kingdom and its people.
"Serious steps will be taken to continue these reforms as wished by King Abdullah and Crown Prince Salman, deputy premier and minister of defense," Prince Muqrin told Arab News.
He said he would follow the king's vision that gives utmost importance for the welfare and progress of citizens. "King Abdullah wanted the Kingdom to become a highly developed country with its citizens enjoying greater progress and prosperity in all fields."
He praised the king for appointing 30 women on the Shoura Council, establishing the National Anti-Corruption Commission, developing the judicial system and setting up special councils for the development of the oil and economic sectors.
Prince Muqrin, who was appointed deputy premier last Friday, noted the king's efforts in expanding foreign scholarship program, opening more universities and increasing government spending in the education and health sectors.
He emphasized the importance of e-government services, adding that it would help citizens enjoy its fruits in terms of expedited services offered by various government departments. "This electronic service should meet citizens' requirements in various fields."
Prince Muqrin said he was happy over winning the Saudi leadership's confidence, which he considered as a medal of honor. "This is a great responsibility and I pray to the Almighty to help me carry out my duties in the best manner, pleasing God, the king, the nation and my people."
Meanwhile, Prince Sultan bin Salman, president of Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, congratulated Prince Muqrin on his new appointment, on behalf of SCTA's board of directors and staff.
"I wish you every success in your endeavors under the leadership of King Abdullah and Crown Prince Salman."
