Sheikh Hasan Alsaffar, a prominent Shiite religious leader from Qatif, Saudi Arabia, was invited by Dr. Mohammad bin Sunaytan, the Chairman of SAS National Center for Public Opinion. This meeting, which was on Monday, June 21st, 2010, was dedicated for sharing Alsaffar's moderate viewpoints and good offices.

Dr. Sunaytan introduced Alsaffar, and commended his moderation, national tendency and his interest in communicating with all social and religious groups. He stressed the significance of working on unity, social peace and combating corruption.

Sheikh Alsaffar indicated three essential factors, as he believes, for reinforcing national unity and developing the society. He emphasized the importance of promoting the concept of citizenship, as it is one of factors.

He explained that citizenship means that all citizens are equal in rights, duties and opportunities regardless of their sects, tribes or affiliations. He confirmed that it is the best way for achieving political and social stability in a community with ethnic and religious diversity.

Alsaffar, also, stressed the importance of focusing on developing the community whether politically, socially or economically, and avoiding arguments and disputes that hinder civilization. He indicated Malaysia and Singapore as examples, and said that although these two states are ethnically and religiously diversifies, they have directed their efforts towards economic development and social peace.

Moreover, he stated that Saudi religious leaders and intellectuals should encourage citizens to be productive and combat corruption and impediments to developments. He stressed the necessity of eliminating dangers that threatens the society as drugs and moral deviations as well as avoiding sectarian disputes that distract the community from focusing on major issues.

Alsaffar talked about the third factor which is spreading the culture of tolerance that makes all parties respect each other. He indicated that diversity is a fact; therefore, dialogue, which is not contemporary, is a must.

He said that the National Dialogue Draft, which is sponsored by King Abdullah al Saud, is the best initiative on the way of eliminating incitement to hatred, classifying citizens and doubting in their national allegiance. He emphasized that communications between different parties significantly contributes in eliminating passive impressions and illusions.