This glorious National Day is a precious occasion to every citizen; in its annual recurrence one witnesses the continuing march of progress our people have lived at all levels and of which they are too well aware. It is certainly a source of pride and national tribute that, among influential countries, such record time development has earned the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia an effective position on decision-making of all pertinent political developments. Nor is it this progress that places Saudi Arabia ahead of many countries. Other distinguishing factors include its esteemed religious value, its rich heritage, its protection of the true faith of Islam, and its commitment to Islam as a way and principle of life, and thus has become the safe haven for all Muslims. Only naturally that it has devoted its utmost care and attention to the Two Holy Mosques and the holy places. For these, Saudi Arabia has spent unreservedly on their restorations and expansions so that Muslims visitors can readily and comfortably perform their worshipping and spiritual rituals. Observers of the advancing march of our beloved country will note the efforts of our prudent leadership in promoting the dissemination of learning and education of the youth of the nation, as well as in encouraging interests in all sciences, arts, and fields of education. They further note the attention accorded the sectors of health, security, defense and other divisions and departments of the State. This is fully evident in the current era, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, aided by his Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior; and by Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense. --More 13:43 LOCAL TIME 10:43 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w