SPECIAL TO WORLD TRIBUNE.COM Wednesday, December 4, 2002

ABU DHABI — Saudi Arabia is working to form an Arab coalition to oppose any U.S. drive to impose democracy on the Middle East.

Arab diplomatic sources said the kingdom has been consulting with Egypt, Syria and the Gulf states regarding the ramifications of post-Saddam reforms in Iraq. The sources said Saudi Arabia is concerned that it will be the next target of the Bush administration.

"The Saudi efforts want to ensure that no major Arab country will plot against Riyad or any other regime targeted by the United States," a diplomatic source said. "While Washington opposed Iraq on the issue of weapons of mass destruction, the Saudis are worried that Washington will use the banner of democracy." Health insurance for the self-employed: Special offer The London-based Al Quds Al Arabi daily reported that Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al Faisal has been touring Arab capitals and urging them to sign an agreement that would pledge to resist any U.S. effort for regime change in the Arab world. The newspaper said Riyad wants Arab League members to sign such a pledge during their next summit.

"No one can change the Saudi regime but Allah," Saudi Interior Minister Prince Nayef Bin Abdul Aziz said.

The proposed accord would also commit league members to oppose any U.S. attempt to freeze the assets of any Arab government. The Saudi aim is to prevent Washington from blocking Saudi assets in the United States or in allied nations that stem from the multi-trillion dollar suit by the families of victims of the Al Qaida attacks on New York and Washington more than a year ago.

Saudi leaders have relayed their concern to the Bush administration over the effects of the law suit against leading princes and institutions. Among those named in the suit are Prince Nayef and Saudi Defense Minister Prince Sultan.

At the same time, Saudi leaders have taken steps to address U.S. concerns regarding lack of democracy in the kingdom. Riyad has agreed to examine a proposal to provide authority for the 120-member Shura consultative council. The council is appointed by King Fahd and discusses civilian and military issues.

-- Anonymous, December 04, 2002