Former deputy prime minister Anwar Ibrahim will be meeting Saudi Arabian leaders and businessmen during his forthcoming visit to the country.

His aide Azmin Ali revealed that the meeting will be held in the Saudi capital Riyadh after he performs his umrah (minor pilgrimage) in Mecca next week.

"His (Anwar) visit to Saudi is expected to stretch until late October. Before leaving for Malaysia, he will be stopping by in Riyadh to meet a group of community leaders and businessmen," said Azmin when contacted today.

"However, no date has been fixed yet as the arrangement is still being finalised. Anwar also hoped that he would be able to meet his old friends."

Acording to Azmin, Anwar is keen to hold informal meetings and seek first-hand information on the economic and security situation in the region.

"He wants to learn more about various issues including terrorism activities and would like to help improve things in Asia," Azmin said.

Prior to his sacking and arrest in 1998, Anwar was known for his efforts in engaging Western powers in dialogue on issues affecting Muslims worldwide.

Several Muslim organisations, leaders and scholars have expressed interest in Anwar continuing this effort. They have invited him to attend related dialogues and conferences.

On Wednesday, he told United States' deputy defence secretary Paul Wolfowitz - one of the most prominent and 'hawkish' members in the George W Bush administration - that global peace and security would not be attained if the superpower continues to allow Muslims to be marginalised.

To Jeddah on Sunday

Speaking on Anwar's plans now that he has been officially discharged from Munich's Alpha Clinic, Azmin said Dr Thomas Hoogland had advised him to take a few days rest before travelling.

"Though happy with Anwar's development, Hoogland felt that Anwar should rest before a long journey. He also advised him (Anwar) to continue his physiotherapy sessions when he returns to Malaysia late October."

Currently plans are being made for Anwar and his family to catch a flight to Jeddah on Sunday evening.

Azmin also extended Anwar's thanks to Hoogland and his team of medical specialists and staff and to all Malaysians for their support and prayers for his speedy recovery.

"He was touched by efforts made by all those who visited him in Munich especially Malaysians residing and studying in Europe," he said.

Azmin also said that Anwar was looking forward to celebrate Hari Raya with his family, friends and supporters at his home town in Cherok To' Kun, Penang.

Meanwhile, Anwar had expressed his disappointment to the German government for rejecting a visiting visa for renowned Islamic scholar Shaikh Yusof al-Qardawi.

"In a letter dated Oct 6 to Chancellor Schroeder, Anwar defended the integrity and credibility of Qardhawi as a renowned religious scholar who holds moderate views on religious issues and plays a large role in organising inter racial and cultural dialogues," Azmin said.