Shah Salman leaves Obama standing, to offer prayers

RIYADH: The new Saudi King and custodian of the two holy mosques, Shah Salman bin Abdul Aziz surprised the visiting US President when he left him to offer prayers.

The incident transpired last week when US President Obama accompanied by his wife Michelle had arrived in the kingdom to offer condolences on the passing of Shah Abdullah.

The scene was witnessed by millions on television screens across the world. As the US President and first lady were meeting the new Saudi King, the evening call for prayer began.

Shah Salman, upon hearing the call for prayer left the US President and his wife and proceeded to offer his prayers.

Islam gives special importance to prayer and the new Saudi King, Shah Salman led by example to show the importance of prayer giving it priority over meeting one of the most powerful leaders in the present world.