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Riyadh: Most Saudis back the government in its campaign against Al Qaida, but say they want more democracy in the country, according to poll findings released this week.
The study conducted by US group Terror Free Tomorrow showed 15 per cent of respondents had a favourable view of Saudi-born Al Qaida leader Osama Bin Laden and 88 per cent approve of the government's efforts to pursue militants inside the kingdom.
Washington-based Terror Free Tomorrow said it carried out its research by telephone this month with around 1,000 Saudis. Opinion polls on political issues are rare in Saudi Arabia.
The study showed 52 per cent of respondents had an unfavourable opinion of the United States, although 40 per cent had a favourable opinion and 69 per cent wanted better relations.
"Considering the most populous Muslim countries of the world, Saudi Arabia is among the most favourable to the United States," said the report, published on the internet (www.terrorfreetomorrow.org).
Popularity of monarchy
While 95 per cent of respondents said they had an approving view of King Abdullah, who came to power in 2005 promising reforms, 80 per cent said free elections and a free press should be a government priority.
The report also showed that 79 per cent support the "absolute monarchy".
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