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Energy: The Emissary from Arabia

He does not look or act like one of the world's most powerful men. His eyes are gentle and thoughtful. His hands fondle prayer beads. He speaks softly. Yet because he is Saudi Arabia's Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Sheik Ahmed Zaki Yamani wields greater influence over the lives of consumers in the U.S., Europe and Japan than some of their own elected officials.

Last week, after visiting European capitals, Yamani went to Washington to explain the Arab embargo and exchange views with top U.S. officials. In each meeting, he made Saudi Arabia's position clear. "We will be more than happy...

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