Arab News Riyadh

• OIC a ‘unified voice for Islamic nation,’ say ministers

In its weekly session on Tuesday, the Saudi Cabinet vowed to crack down on financial and administrative corruption to achieve the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

The Cabinet meeting, chaired by King Salman at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, commended the state budget for the fiscal year 1441/1442 H corresponding to the year 2020. The ministers said the budget showed the Kingdom’s determination to continue socioeconomic reforms and enhance the ongoing development process.

The king ordered all ministers and officials to commit to the Kingdom’s development and social programs envisaged in the budget. King Salman briefed the Cabinet about his talks with different heads of states and key foreign officials.

The ministers also reviewed the outcome of the 40th session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) particularly the importance of the member states’ role in ensuring the stability and security of the region in the face of current challenges.

The Cabinet welcomed the final communique of the GCC summit citing the GCC leaders’ keenness on ensuring cohesion, interdependence and unity, for the welfare of the region and its people.

In a statement issued to the Saudi Press Agency, Media Minister Turki Al-Shabanah said the ministers commended the formation of the Control and Anti-Corruption Authority to fight financial and administrative corruption.

Earlier in December, a royal order was issued incorporating the Control and Investigation Authority and the Mabahith to the National Anti-Corruption Authority and altering its name to Control and Anti-Corruption Authority.

The Cabinet also hailed the signing of an agreement to set up the Unified Military Command Headquarters of the GCC in Riyadh. This reflects the determination to establish security and defense cooperation and coordination to preserve Gulf stability.

The ministers also reviewed the G20 meetings held under the presidency of the Kingdom.

Al-Shabanah said the Cabinet also reviewed regional and international developments.

The ministers congratulated Abdelmadjid Tebboune on his election as Algerian president, he added.

The Cabinet stressed the role being played by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and its relentless endeavors to strengthen the joint Islamic action.

Describing it as a unified voice for the Islamic nation, the ministers said it was an honor for the Kingdom to host the OIC headquarters.