King Abdullah receives doctorate degree

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah on Sunday received a honorary doctorate degree in global peace and humanity from the University of Indonesia. He also received a medal from the International Islamic Charitable Organization. During a reception at Al-Safa Palace here Gumilar R. Sumantri, rector University of Indonesia, conferred on King Abdullah the doctorate degree and the university's sash. He said the degree was awarded in appreciation of the king's efforts in promoting moderate teachings of Islam, supporting the Palestinian cause, and initiating dialogue between religions. "We also appreciate the king's humanitarian efforts and his endeavors to promote science and technology," Sumantri said. Meanwhile, the international charity gave its medal for leaders to King Abdullah in appreciation of his contributions toward alleviating the suffering of the poor downtrodden in different parts of the world. In another development, King Abdullah received Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem Al-Thani and discussed major regional and international issues. Sheikh Hamad commended the king for launching the largest Haram expansion in history and opening new projects in Makkah. The receptions were attended by Education Minister Prince Faisal bin Abdullah, Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, other princes and senior officials as well as Abdullah Al-Maetouk, chairman of the International Islamic Charitable Organization.