ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): The International Consortium for Religious Diplomacy (ICRD), a non-profitable organization, on Sunday, marked the 18th death anniversary of King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud highlighting his remarkable achievements in serving the Ummah and leaving a lasting impact on the Muslim world.
Born on March 16, 1921, in Riyadh, former King Fahd, a revered leader, ascended to the throne of Saudi Arabia on June 13, 1982 till 2005, leading the nation into an era of unparalleled progress and prosperity.
Addressing the event virtually from Riyadh, Saudi embassy’s Press Attaché Dr. Naif Al-Otaibi said King Fahd was a visionary ruler who understood the importance of unity among Muslim nations and worked tirelessly to strengthen ties between them.
Shedding light on one of King Fahd’s most significant contributions in fostering Islamic solidarity through the establishment of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), now known as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
This international organization brought together Muslim-majority countries, providing a platform for diplomatic collaboration and addressing issues of common concern, ranging from political conflicts to economic development and humanitarian assistance, he maintained.
He said King Fahd’s dedication to education and knowledge also left a profound impact on the Ummah adding that he generously supported educational institutions worldwide, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in advancing societies.
Dr. Naif said his philanthropic endeavors included the establishment of King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Saudi Arabia, which became a center of excellence for science, engineering, and technology, contributing significantly to the development of human resources in the region.
He said King Fahd was committed to humanitarian causes, particularly in times of crisis and played a pivotal role in providing aid and support to Muslim communities affected by natural disasters and armed conflicts, demonstrating his unwavering compassion and concern for the well-being of the Ummah.
Meanwhile, ICRD President Rehan Khan said King Fahd’s contributions were cherished and remembered with gratitude in Pakistan.
He said the King Fahd’s generous financial assistance to the country during times of economic hardship bolstered its development and strengthened bilateral ties.
“His commitment to fostering mutual understanding between Islamic nations also played a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in the region,” he maintained.
He said Muslims around the world observe this solemn occasion and reflect on the legacy of a leader whose compassion, vision, and dedication to the Ummah continue to inspire generations.
He said King Fahd bin Abdulaziz’s profound impact on the Islamic world and his unwavering commitment to uplifting the Muslim community would be remembered for years to come, reminding us all of the importance of unity, knowledge, and humanitarianism in creating a better world for the Ummah.
The event, attended by a number of people from various segments of society, concluded with prayers for the elevation of the departed soul in Jannah and taking two brotherly countries Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to new heights of glory and prosperity.
He died on August 1, 2005, at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. May Allah rest his soul in peace in the eternal abode (Ameen).
