Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah receives King Carl Gustaf of Sweden at his palace in Riyadh on Saturday. During the meeting Gustaf presented the membership of Universal Scout Fund to Abdullah. (SPA)

RIYADH — Swedish King Carl Gustaf, honorary president of the Universal Scout Fund, and Riyadh Gov. Prince Salman jointly opened the international scout exhibition for peace at the King Fahd Cultural Center here yesterday.

Speaking at the occasion, Gustaf thanked Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah for his support to the “Gifts for Peace” project that aims to develop the skills of the youth and engage them in constructive activities.

He noted the king’s key role in making the project a big success. “So far about 10 million scouts in 110 countries have taken part in the project,” the Swedish king said, praising scouts for completing their assignments quickly and efficiently.

Gustaf commended Saudi scouts for their active participation in the annual Haj operation. About 4,500 scouts take part in Haj every year extending various services. It is one of the largest events offering a lot of opportunities for public service.

“I am happy to learn that Saudi scouts have been providing a lot of service to pilgrims during Haj and that they extend their services with a smile,” the king said. He also noted the amazing skills of Saudi youths who took part in the exhibition.

“Look at the photographs they have displayed at the exhibition. It will give you an idea about the ability and enthusiasm of these youths and you will be impressed by their commitment,” he added.

Education Minister Dr. Abdullah Al-Obaid, who is president of Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association (SABSA), said the gifts for peace program aims at developing the skills of the youths and protecting human values.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Fahd, supervisor of the exhibition, said the exhibition was organized in coordination with SABSA and Universal Scout Fund in order to showcase achievements of scouts in different countries in the field of peace. “The exhibition features a number of materials promoting peace and it reflects the mission and message of the scouts movement,” he said.

SABSA has established a website on the Internet to help people around the world follow up the event.

He referred to other international events organized by the movement to spread a culture of peace. In 2003, Saudi Arabia hosted an international jamboree in Jubail with the aim of promoting cultural interaction and exchange. “Together for peace” was the title of that camp. The scouts movement now has 28 million members in 160 countries.