Saudi monarch considers Cabinet changes (AP)

[Eugene]

Posted on Mon, Jan. 08, 2007

Saudi monarch considers Cabinet changes
SALAH NASRAWI
Associated Press

CAIRO, Egypt - King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia is considering a major Cabinet
reshuffle soon, the first since he ascended to the throne of the oil-rich
kingdom, diplomats and Saudi media said Monday.

The reshuffle may include key posts such as foreign minister, which has been
held by Prince Saud al-Faisal for more than 30 years, and the influential oil
minister, they said.

-snip-

Saudis who have intimate knowledge of the discussions regarding the possible
reshuffle said al-Faisal, who has had health problems, might be replaced by
Crown Prince Sultan's son Prince Bandar, a former ambassador to Washington
and current secretary of the National Security Council. They spoke on
condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to the media.

-snip-

The news of the reshuffle comes a month after the resignation of Prince Turki
al-Faisal as Saudi ambassador to the United States. His resignation after
just 15 months in the post sparked speculation about a power rift within the
royal family.

-snip-

Full article: http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/news/world/16412311.htm

[annabanana]

1. Is that "Bandar Bush"? - new Foreign Minister?. . . .n/t