The following is a rough English translation of the statement read in Arabic by the Saudi Arabia representative at the HRC session in Geneva:
Your Excellency, Mr. Chairman;
As the representative of my country I would like to add my support to the statement by the Organization of Islamic Conference. I also would like to remind us that the text of the proposed statement (L.9/Rev.1) is not within the framework of human rights principles that are internationally agreed upon, and it is not acceptable to insert items that are not universally agreed upon as part of the Human Rights Council’s agenda. As it is noted in Vienna convention, religious and cultural considerations should be taken into consideration while dealing with human rights. Therefore it is neither logical nor acceptable to pass a resolution without considering prevailing religious and cultural values.
This issue is not only against the teachings of Islam, but also stand against all divine religions and many cultures globally. In light of these facts, my country will vote against this resolution.
Thank you Mr chairman