the mayor hailed the Saudi role in the stability of the world economy and the continuation of the energy supplies uninterrupted as well as preserving the prices. Moreover, Saudi Arabia has been encouraging efforts for finding new sources of energy, he noted. The mayor expressed appreciation for the intensive efforts of King Abdullah to reform the economy, and said we do appreciate your efforts for reforming and updating the Saudi economy and diversifying its sources. Hailing the growth of trade relations between the two Kingdoms, he said trade exchange between the tow countries has been increasing annually by 12 percent, he said noting that the two countries have been maintaining close relations in the fields of energy, defense and trade. The Mayor said London has become the pioneering financial center in the world. He noted that the existence of a great Muslim community in Britain and the strong British relations with the Muslim world make London a pioneering city in making financial products that conform with the Islamic Shariah available. The Mayor said the Prophet of Islam, peace be upon him, had urged the Muslims to acquire knowledge even from China. To realize this duty London will remain your partner in this respect, because Saudi Arabia is keen on realizing development of higher education and making trained cadres available, he said. On behalf of the British Muslims, the Mayor expressed appreciation for the facilities being extended by Saudi Arabia to enable them perform Hajj and Umrah (minor Hajj) in comfort and ease. He noted that Islam is the religion of love, fraternity, tolerance and peace.--more www.spa.gov.sa/495538