In the world of politics, friendships can all too often be transient or diplomatic and thus measurable only in terms of expediency or necessity. With Prince Bandar bin Sultan and I that was certainly not the case: I have enjoyed a lasting and intensely personal friendship with Prince Bandar, an individual of extraordinary warmth, intellect, and loyalty. Bandar has given me his unhesitating support over the years in so many ways; throughout, he has been honest and generous, no less than I would expect from this statesman of such great stature.

In writing Prince Bandar’s biography, William Simpson has met a massive challenge, as he has captured the essence of the man--the enigma--that is Bandar. Addressing the twists and turns in this amazing life is a feat in itself, as is identifying those factors that have created the charismatic and accomplished individual that I am proud to know as a close friend.

Prince Bandar has had a quite astonishing influence during the past two decades as a roving international peacemaker, operating mainly in the background, never seeking public recognition and rarely accepting the plaudits of his peers. The remarkable respect accorded to Prince Bandar by so many heads of state and government, and statespersons and opinion-makers around the world should come as no surprise to those of us who know him well, but until now his central role has remained largely unheralded.

Prince Bandar is an outstanding man--a charming, eloquent, and nonetheless humble figure, who has so often guided the pattern of world events. I am delighted that I could contribute to an account that I know is vibrant and humorous, punctuated by Bandar’s own stories--always larger than life and full of fun--for he is a storyteller without equal.

In conclusion, Prince Bandar’s achievements deserve international recognition. He has worked relentlessly in the cause of peace and I unconditionally applaud him as a man of principle, a diplomat of astonishing caliber and one of the great peacemakers of our time.

Nelson Mandela