Shoura speaker seeks input from intellectuals

RIYADH: Shoura Council Speaker Abdullah Al-Asheikh said Tuesday that intellectuals and opinion leaders play an important role in society.
“They are, in fact, our partners especially at present when there’s need for concerted efforts to contribute to a better future for our country,” he said.
Al-Asheikh made the remark when a group of intellectuals and opinion leaders called on him in his office at the Shoura headquarters.
He said that the Shoura looks up to opinion writers and intellectuals for their contributions to information dissemination. “The Shoura will benefit from constructive criticism, through which it evaluates work and knowledge,” he said.
He also made his visitors aware of the important role the Shoura plays in decision making, and stressed its desire to communicate with citizens.
“The Shoura also welcomes emails and text messages from various sectors of society on various issues,” he said.
He added that when the Shoura met at its sixth session, it received more than 80,000 online petitions and messages, adding that these were referred to the committees concerned to study and take action.
He also told intellectuals and opinion leaders about Shoura’s overview of Islam, stressing that the system of government in the Kingdom is based on the principles of justice.
He pointed out that the decisions of the Shoura are in accordance with the principles of the Saudi leadership, headed by Custodian of Two Holy Mosques King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif and Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Al-Asheikh expressed his hope for a continuous meaningful partnership between the Shoura and the opinion leaders and intellectuals.
Shoura Deputy Speaker Mohammed bin Amin Jafri was also present on the occasion.