Between Egypt and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia lie bonds of Arab brotherhood—deep ties of affection and love, the sacred unity that beats within the heart of the Arab East.
If the events that have swept across the East have awakened within it the spirit of action, courage, solidarity, and mutual support, then Egypt’s relationship with the Hijaz is an ancient one. Time has repeatedly proven that it grows stronger with the years and that, by God’s will, it shall never be severed.
The Hijaz is the blessed land from whose horizons shone the light of faith and certainty—the light carried by Muhammad ibn Abdullah, who dispelled the darkness of ignorance and idolatry, opened for humanity the paths of knowledge and understanding, and established the law of truth and guidance. The birth of Islam was truly the birth of peace.
Egypt’s great guest, King Saud, is a noble brother and the son of a noble brother. His visit to Egypt today is, in truth, a visit to his own homeland, for the Arab East is one indivisible whole. It recognizes no barriers or separations. We are brothers in our joys and sorrows, and brothers in all that we seek of good and peace.
The sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the sacred land that every Muslim considers his spiritual homeland—the homeland of all Muslims, the place where the revelation descended upon our noble Messenger.
History has shown, time and again, that the Saudi and the Egyptian are brothers in every sense of the word. Hundreds of Egyptians living in the Hijaz know they live among brothers and cousins, and Saudis living in Egypt feel the same.
Islam, which united our hearts, continues to teach us that happiness lies in unity and harmony. And the East—against which the forces of evil have conspired—will not be safe from danger unless it becomes a solid barrier against greed and ambition.
The great guest visiting Egypt for the first time in its new era will see a young nation rising to its responsibilities—having laid the foundation of reform and embarked upon major projects that bring prosperity to the country, meet its needs, and fulfill the aspirations of its people. He will realize that Egypt is truly delighted by his noble visit, for it carries with it the meanings of brotherhood, affection, and deep-rooted love—meanings the East needs now more than ever.
Al‑Musawwar — Special Issue, 1373 AH