Saudi king 'steadily improving'

King Fahd is said to be suffering from a lung infection

Saudi King Fahd's condition is reported to be improving since he was admitted to hospital on Friday complaining of breathing problems.

"Thank God his health is steadily improving," Interior Minister Prince Nayef told state media on Sunday.

The minister did not give more details, but an earlier court statement said the king would be undergoing further tests.

Officials have said King Fahd was suffering high fever and pneumonia caused by water in his lungs.

In 1995 King Fahd, now in his early 80s, suffered a stroke, and Crown Prince Abdullah has fulfilled most of the monarch's responsibilities since then.

Prince Abdullah is regarded as a likely successor to the throne.

Correspondents in Riyadh report that the situation there remained normal on Sunday as people went about their business as usual.