A few days ago, we joyfully marked a momentous occasion cherished by all Saudis: the anniversary of King Salman bin Abdulaziz’s ascension to the throne. We pray to Allah, the Almighty, to grant him health, well-being, and long life, and to bless him with wise and righteous advisors and leaders who will support him in serving the religion and the nation —foremost among them, his honorable sons and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

For decades, people across all regions of the Kingdom wished for Salman bin Abdulaziz to be their leader. His reputation for decisiveness, transparency, justice, security, development, strong leadership, and wisdom made him a figure to look up to. Under his leadership, there has been unwavering support for the youth, the enforcement of law, and equal treatment for all — whether rich or poor, prince or citizen, or even foreign residents. King Salman’s meticulous approach to governance, with strict adherence to timelines and prioritization of essential work, has ensured that no injustice prevails under his rule.

By divine will, Salman bin Abdulaziz ascended to the throne and became King. He applied his renowned style of governance, marked by precision and decisiveness, across the Kingdom, extending beyond Riyadh to all regions. As King, he has been a steadfast guardian of culture, economy, investment, and the broader business community.

His reign began with the establishment of pivotal state institutions, including the creation of the Public Prosecution, which serves as the conscience of society, ensuring the rule of law is upheld with independence and neutrality across all authorities, institutions, and individuals.

King Salman reinforced national security by bolstering the Ministry of Interior and founding the Presidency of State Security, which now plays a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s security both at home and abroad.

He took a firm stand against corruption, recovering state funds, promoting integrity and transparency, and rooting out abuses of power. In doing so, he strengthened competitiveness and transparency across the Kingdom.

One of King Salman’s significant achievements was the restructuring of the state’s institutions and authorities, consolidating their hierarchical power to restore the legislative and constitutional framework. He ensured that the King remained the ultimate authority within the government’s structure, without overlap between councils, authorities, and institutions. This reorganization restored the dignity and prestige of government administration, with King Salman serving as both King and Prime Minister, and as the ultimate reference for judicial and legislative matters.

He made good governance the cornerstone of his leadership, preserving the nation’s wealth, culture, and heritage, and safeguarding its natural resources for future generations.

King Salman provided a clear vision for the nation through Vision 2030, a strategic goal pursued by all state authorities and institutions. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a visionary leader and a legal expert, oversees this transformation. He has reformed the judiciary and legislation, ensuring institutional justice and fairness, moving away from reliance on individual interpretations.

The love for our nation has been further instilled through the celebration of National Day and Founding Day, reminding us of the steadfast principles of the Al Saud family over the past three centuries. Their vision and ambition have made the Arabian Peninsula a land of safety, security, and protection of the Two Holy Mosques, always in service to Islam.

We now carry the flag, the national anthem, and the color green with great pride around the world. Our nation’s sons and daughters continue to achieve awards and accolades across all fields, not just in sports. This success is a reflection of the values King Salman has instilled in us — confidence, ambition, loyalty, and dedication to our homeland, its leadership, and its people — leading to remarkable achievements.

King Salman bin Abdulaziz is not only a ruler but also a father and a leader. He has strengthened the state’s institutions for future generations, instilled a deep sense of love and loyalty for the nation, and inspired the youth to work hard and strive for greatness under the guidance of an ambitious young leadership. Through this leadership, we have discovered a renewed sense of passion and enthusiasm.

May Allah grant our leader and father, King Salman, long life and continue to bless him with success in upholding the faith, the nation, and the Muslim world.