Al-Awad said this decision represents a shift in transparency, accountability and governance which produces a healthy environment that is attractive for investment.

:: Minister of Culture and Information Dr. Awad bin Saleh al-Awad said that the royal decree on fighting corruption is the state’s approach towards promoting integrity and advancing reform under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and the Crown Prince.

The minister said that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince are keen to protect the public funds and eradicate corruption, which is considered a deterrent to the economy and society.

He said that this decision represents a shift in transparency, accountability and governance which produces a healthy environment that is attractive for investment.

Al-Awad added that the fight against corruption is a formal and popular demand to achieve social justice and accelerate the pace of reform and development of the renaissance within the Kingdom.

This is an important step towards the implementation of the kingdom’s policy to preserve public monies, announcing the launch of a new stage that establishes the state’s management style based on integrity, honesty and sincerity.

The minister said that the Crown Prince’s message in punishing corrupt people is a clear and firm message that no one will escape accountability.

Dr. Al-Awad explained that this decision will have a significant positive impact on the people of the Kingdom because the return of funds looted will benefit them in development projects and restore tens of millions of meters of land illegally seized.

He added that this will also aid in solving the housing problems and that this decision represents a strong deterrent for those who steal public money.

The Minister praised the King and the Crown Prince for their efforts to protect the country and its citizens and for preserving the country.