This latest statement of the Saudi government to turn Saudi state as a moderate Muslim state is a sigh of relief for millions or may be for billions of people in this world.  The strict following of Wahhabism version of Islam by the Saudi government has created lot of problems for the whole world.  Better late than never.  Turning towards moderate ideas of Islam will make many terrorist activities disappear which means peace and tranquility in the world, and also it will save lots of innocent lives.  This decision by the Saudi government needs to be applauded by all civilized nations.  The money spent on madrasses to train martyrs will be invested for the welfare of people.  This writer just wonders if other Muslim countries supporting jihadi ideology will take a cue from the Saudis and stop assisting fundamentalists and divert their financial resources towards meaningful channels.  I think it will be a good idea if the Saudi government publishes details of its new policy explaining modern Islam - for example, their policy towards stopping Jihadi ideology through mosques and madrasses, equal rights for all genders, freedom of speech and fundamental rights, equal rights for all people practicing different religions etc.

The Saudi government officials are trying to portray its soft religious side of government by openly rejecting terrorist methods adopted by the Muslim fundamentalists. One wonders if the Saudi government is really serious about what they are trying to say. Would the world really take them on their face value and hope the terrorism will decline because of support being withdrawn by the Saudis. If what the Saudis are saying is true, then one believes that they will not preach hatred and ill will against the non-Muslims in the mosques. One will also believe, (a) they will disseminate a message of peace, love and harmony with others, (b) they will not fund Madrasses in which all the youngsters are brain washed who become future martyrs, (c) openly reject Jihad against innocent people and (d) the most appreciated gesture will be to allow non-Muslims also ( if they want to) to visit Mecca and Madina like other religions who allow people of all faiths to visit their respective shrines. In addition, one must not undermine the importance of individual freedom and exercise of basic fundamental rights enshrined under the democratic system of government. This writer, however, has his apprehension if the Saudis will be able to accomplish above cited objectives - but it will be a true test of Saudis.