WAM Riyadh, May 7th, 2012 (WAM) -- H. H. Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council member and ruler of Sharjah has hailed the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz for his leadership role in bringing cultural renaissance, prosperity in the Kingdom, and his love for serving the two holy mosques respectable to every Arab and Muslim alike in the world.

He made these remarks in a ceremony held to honor him with the Salman bin Abdelaziz Prize for the Arabian Peninsula Historical Studies and Research for 2012. The award is given to the distinguished non Saudis in recognition of their contributions to the Arabian Peninsula Historical Studies and Research. The event was organized by Darat al-Malik Abdul Aziz, (King 'Abd al-'Aziz).

Sheikh Sultan in a statement on this occasion expressed his appreciation and love for Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the holy land and its King. He also thanked Prince Salman bin Abdelaziz for his patronage for this Award as well as his efforts to preserve the memory of the Arabian Peninsula and his support for several social , humanitarian and international institutions locally and globally.

He also appreciated the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz for his generous patronage, efforts, loyalty and continuous support for the interest of his country.

Saudi Arabian Defense Minister Prince Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud and chairman of King Abdul Aziz Darat congratulated Sheikh Sultan on winning the prestigious award.

WAM/HH/AM