Ad and PR Campaigns of Arabia

"For too long, rumors have been accepted as truth," says one of two new U.S. radio ads launched by Saudi Arabia, to highlight 9/11 Commission findings favorable to the country. "The ads don't address commission criticism of Saudi Arabia, which the report called 'a problematic ally in combating Islamic extremism,'" writes Associated Press. Fahrenheit 9/11 and the Kerry campaign have increased scrutiny of Saudi-Bush ties. Through PR firm Qorvis Communications, Saudi Arabia is disputing charges by Daniel Pipes that the Kingdom pays Middle East academic experts to speak on its behalf. But Qorvis is doing "ongoing education to communities around the country regarding the importance and value of strong U.S.-Saudi relations," including offering pro-Saudi speakers to universities.