Saudi Arabia’s first ambassador to Palestine, Naif Al-Sudairi, noted that the Kingdom has injected a total of $13.5 billion as financial aid in Palestine.
Speaking to the “Asharq Al-Awsat ” newspaper on Monday, Al-Sudairi emphasized that his appointment as the extraordinary, non-resident ambassador to the State of Palestine and consul general in Jerusalem underscores a significant gesture of support for the Palestinian brethren.
Al-Sudairi highlighted the profound bond between the two nations, noting that the ties “surpass what many understand.”
He added that Saudi Arabia has been one of the staunchest supporters of Palestine, providing extensive political, financial, and moral backing. He recalled the sacrifices Saudi Arabia made during the 1948 war.
Al-Sudairi also highlighted that Saudi Arabia’s support for the Palestinian authority surpassed SAR 29 billion (approximately $7.7 billion).
Furthermore, the Kingdom contributed over SAR 4 billion ($1.2 billion) to UNRWA and directed SAR 18 billion ($4.8 billion) through the Saudi Development Fund. This totals around SAR 51 billion ($13.5 billion), reflecting the depth of Saudi-Palestinian relations.
On the other hand, the Palestinian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Bassam Al-Agha, perceives Saudi’s step as a message to the world, acknowledging Palestine as a sovereign state with Jerusalem as its capital. Al-Agha mentioned that President Mahmoud Abbas consistently expresses utmost confidence in Saudi leadership and their unwavering support for the State of Palestine.
The increasing diplomatic engagements underscore the significant relations between Saudi Arabia and Palestine and reflect Riyadh’s continued commitment to Palestinian issues.
