The European Parliament today in Strasbourg adopted a resolution on Saudi Arabia with an overwhelming majority following a report from S&D Euro MP Ana Gomes.

The report recognises the strategically important role Saudi Arabia plays as the world's leading oil producer and custodian of the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina. At the same time the report calls on Saudi Arabia to play a constructive role in the Middle East, in particular in the civil war in Syria and in moves towards reconciliation between Iran and the international community. The report is highly critical of Saudi Arabia's support for Salafist and Wahhabist movements around the world and the support of some influential Saudi citizens and organisations for extremist groups with reactionary agendas deeply opposed to the rights of women. It also criticises the lack of the freedom of religion in Saudi Arabia, where no public practice of any religion except Islam is allowed.

Said Ana Gomes, the European Parliament's rapporteur on Saudi Arabia and S&D co-ordinator for foreign affairs:

"Saudi Arabia is important today in the Middle East and beyond - politically and economically, and in the fight against terrorism. However, despite its official declarations, its actions are not always conducive to global security and the fight against terrorism. This report is important as it establishes the position of the European Parliament and helps to set out the key issues for relations between the European Union and Riyadh."

Ana Gomes emphasised the problems that persist in Saudi Arabia's human rights record, in particular on the rights of women, minorities and migrants, and in the field of religious freedom, the media and civil society:

"Human rights issues can no longer be ignored in EU relations with Saudi Arabia. This is the first time a Parliament report has focused on this problem, which is significant in itself. It is unacceptable that the EU and its member states continue to deal with Saudi Arabia considering solely economic interests and security concerns. As the largest oil producer in the world it plays a central role in the Gulf Co-operation Council, is a member of the G20 and is a leading investor, trading partner and buyer of armaments."