The Commonwealth Government extends its deepest condolences to the Government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the death of King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud.
King Abdullah was a key architect of Saudi Arabia’s economic and political development. Amongst his many achievements, he oversaw the transformation of the Kingdom’s economy, presided over the first municipal elections, and supported an expanded role for the consultative Shura Council, including the appointment of women.
The King also placed a major emphasis on education, particularly as patron of the visionary King Abdullah Scholarship Programme. Many of the recipients of the scholarship programme have studied at Australian education institutions.
The King was also a strong proponent of international interfaith dialogue.
May he rest in peace.
23 January 2015