Egypt

Mubarak cancelled trip to Riyadh

President Hosni Mubarak cancelled a planned visit to Riyadh on Saturday following reports that Saudi King Abdullah is still recovering from health complications. 

The King, 86, underwent tests on Friday at King Faisal Hospital in Riyadh after he suffered a painful slipped disc and "blood accumulation" around the spine. Doctors advised Abdullah to rest.

The official Al-Ahram daily said Saturday that Mubarak was to hold talks with Abdullah to discuss regional matters.

However, the Egyptian president on Saturday called Abdullah to wish him good health.   

Saudi sources said Abdullah will travel to the US on Monday for treatment.

"I am fine. My health is good," the king told Saudi television.

Undisclosed health problems have hampered Abdullah's diplomatic activities since May.

These latest developments have raised regional and international concern towards the Saudi regime. Analysts say the impending devolution of power may reveal discord within the royal family.

Abdullah has named his son Prince Mitaeb bin Abdullah a member of the council of ministers and head of the National Guard.

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