Ban, Saudi FM discuss regional issues

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon discussed with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal a number of regional issues on the eve of the Geneva II Conference on Syria due in Montreux, Switzerland, his press office said in a statement Tuesday. "They discussed the conference and the need to end the conflict in Syria," the statement said, adding that they also spoke about Lebanon and the need to support its stability. Ban took the opportunity to thank Saudi Arabia for its financial support to the Lebanese Armed Forces. Both officials also discussed the situation in Yemen and applauded the National Dialogue, which is at its concluding stages. Finally, Ban expressed appreciation for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque's support for the UN's counter-terrorism efforts, including his recent pledge of USD 100 million.