President of Umm Al Qura University (UQU) Dr. Bakri Bin M'atoog Bin Bakri Assas has praised King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia for his efforts in serving Islam, supporting Muslim causes and protecting his people.

Assas made the remarks as he sends congratulations to King Salman on winning King Faisal International Prize this year.

"When King Salman accepts a prize, it is a declaration of honor for the prize itself and a turning point in its history," the UQU president said. 

King Salman won this year's prize for his matchless services to Islam, the Two Holy Mosques and pilgrims, Assas said, adding the the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has adopted supportive stances towards the Arab and Muslim worlds as well as the Palestinian cause.

Dr. Assas hailed King's efforts also to spread biography of Prophet Mohamed (Peace Be Upon Him) and the Photo Atlas of the Prophet's Biography. The president added the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques has played a key role to keep nation united and to preserve its legacy.

He has created the Saudi-led Coalition to restore hope for the Yemeni people and embodied strength of the Arab and Muslim world in the North Thunder drills, Dr. Assas gave as an example, adding the King paid special care for the needy people by establishing the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief). 

He said: Being the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques is enough to bring honor to the whole people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Dr. Assas lauded role played by the King to leading the country in providing services for millions of pilgrims who arrive here every year to observe Hajj and Umrah.

The President prayed May Allah reward King Salman immensely for his efforts in serving the religion and the people.