End of an era

The late King Abdullah was an epic figure who loved Saudi citizens like his children and did whatever needed for their welfare and achieve balanced development all over the Kingdom. By empowering women and establishing Princess Noura University — a huge women’s only university in Riyadh — he helped change the perception of Saudi Arabia in the outside world. During his 10-year rule, King Abdullah tried to realize the hopes and aspirations of his people, understanding their requirements. He developed the Kingdom into an economic power that enabled it to stand tall in the comity of nations.

He understood the importance of education as the driving force of progress and established at least 20 universities in all parts of the Kingdom. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, north of Jeddah, is a world-class institution of higher learning and research where outstanding students from all over the world are given admission. The late king became world famous as a result of his continuous efforts for global peace through intercultural and interfaith dialogue. He was a great friend of India and made tremendous efforts to strengthen Saudi-Indian relations and promoted the welfare of Indian expatriates in the Kingdom. tries like Sri Lanka should try to make good use of all the expertise of all its neighbors and should try to maintain cordial ties with all the neighboring countries.

The article, somehow, created an impression as if Rajapaksa’s foreign policy choices led to his defeat in the elections. I beg to disagree with the writer. His defeat was a result of his wrong moves on the domestic front.