For the American newspaper “World Petroleum”His Majesty the new King, Saud bin Abdulaziz, is strong and fully capable of succeeding his late and illustrious father. His Majesty is well‑trained in the art of governance and is thoroughly acquainted with world affairs, having travelled across Europe, the United States, and various Arab and Islamic countries. Above all, he enjoys genuine respect from his own people as well as from foreigners who have had commercial or diplomatic dealings with him. He is a warrior who desires peace, and a devout Muslim who respects the beliefs of others.
As for the Crown Prince, Prince Faisal, he is a soldier‑statesman who has demonstrated great skill in international politics, both as Minister of Foreign Affairs and as his country’s representative at the United Nations since its establishment. The King and the Crown Prince have repeatedly affirmed their desire to strengthen the bonds of friendship between their country and the member states of the United Nations. They have also expressed their support for the development of petroleum resources by the Arabian American Oil Company, and their wish to ensure that the revenues of this wealth serve the welfare of the entire nation.
In short, both the United Nations and the Saudi people view the government of the new reign as stable and progressive. This confidence is largely due to the foundational work laid by the late King, which has established the general structure that the new monarch will be able to reinforce and further strengthen.
His Majesty King Saud was born on January 15, 1902, on the night his father captured Riyadh. He began his studies at the age of seven under the supervision of Sheikh Abdulrahman ibn Mufayrih, memorizing the Qur’an within four years. Six years after beginning his education, he contracted smallpox, prompting his father to withdraw him from school and appoint a private tutor to continue his instruction.
His Majesty visited the Netherlands in 1935, and in 1927 he visited Italy, France, Belgium, and Switzerland. In the same year, he represented his country at the coronation of King George VI in London.
He came to the United States in January 1947 at the special invitation of its government. He toured the entire country, and before his return, the President bestowed upon him the highest American decoration in recognition of the efforts he and his father made toward the general war effort during the Second World War.
In addition to his administrative responsibilities and political acumen, His Majesty has devoted much of his time to projects aimed at advancing and elevating his country—such as his sponsorship of the Scientific Institute in Riyadh and other institutions. This institute, with its vast library, has become a distinguished scholarly center of great renown.
In conclusion, it may be confidently stated that the affairs of governance in Saudi Arabia are in firm and capable hands. There is a sincere desire for friendship with the free nations of the world, and the development of oil resources will proceed on the basis of mutual understanding. There is no doubt that the new King and his advisers will exert their utmost intellectual efforts to realize and secure a comprehensive and fruitful program that will bring prosperity to all the people of Saudi Arabia.