RIYADH — Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, in a special address to the citizens and residents of the Kingdom, assured all that the Kingdom is continuing to take all precautionary measures in combating this corona pandemic. “At the outset, I pray to God to protect citizens and expatriates from the outbreak of coronavirus pandemic that has hit the world,” King Salman said, while underscoring full cooperation of the people is significant for the success of government’s efforts to stem the spread of corona. “We are living through a difficult phase of the world"s history. However, we are completely certain that this phase will end and pass, despite its harsh and bitter difficulties, with belief in God"s words: (Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease, Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease). This crisis will become a piece of history that proves man’s defiance in the face of this hardship humankind is experiencing. “Your nation, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, continues to take all precautionary measures to confront this pandemic and limit its effects. We depend on the aid of God Almighty, then on deploying our full capabilities, supported by your strong determination to face adversities with the steadfastness of believers at the forefront. “The strength, steadfastness, determination that you have demonstrated during the clear negotiating of this difficult phase, and your full cooperation with relevant government agencies, are the most important contributing factors and pillars of the success of the state’s efforts, which has prioritized safeguarding health and made it the state"s top concern. “Therefore, rest assured that we are very keen on providing the necessary medication, food, and living necessities for citizens and residents of this blessed land. “All government sectors, led by the Ministry of Health, are doing all they can and taking all necessary measures to ensure the health of the nation"s citizens and residents. “We express our gratitude to all the government entities for their devotion and dedication, and in that context, we would like to express our distinct recognition to the efforts of our health sector professionals who are dedicating great efforts to preserve and protect the lives of our citizens and residents, devoting their lives to overcome this critical stage. “We reaffirm that continuing this sincere and hard work at such a difficult time can’t be achieved but with solidarity and collaboration, and by building on our positive spirits, further enhancing our individual and collective awareness, and strictly adhering to the instructions and guidelines provided to overcome this pandemic. “You are well acquainted with my honesty in addressing public matters. That is why I started by saying that we are going through a difficult phase, as part of what the whole world is going through. “I will tell you as well that the coming phase will be more difficult on a global level to confront the rapid spread of this pandemic. “At the same time, I know that we will overcome hardships by believing in God, trusting His will, doing the deeds we have to do, and exerting and devoting all our efforts to protect the health and safety of humans and provide all the necessities required to ensure they lead decent lives, relying on your determination, the strength of your resolve, and your heightened sense of collective responsibility, may God preserve us and grant us all the best. “May God protect our country and the rest of the world, and protect humanity as a whole against all adversities.” — SG/SPA