The Sudan's ruling NIF, in a display…

The Sudan's ruling NIF, in a display of Islamic solidarity, has begun to allow any Muslim or any Arab into the country without a visa.

Osama bin Laden, in apparent danger of assassination by the Saudi intelligence services, moves from Afghanistan to the Sudan in 1991 or 1992.

Hundreds of suspected terrorists and ex-mujahedeen also allegedly move to Sudan as a safe haven.

Having found asylum, bin Laden begins to set up legitimate businesses there, including a tannery, two large farms, and a major road construction company, endearing himself to the Sudanese government.

After Saudi Arabia begins pressuring Pakistan to oust the mujahedeen near the border with Afghanistan, bin Laden reportedly pays for the passage of four hundred and eighty Afghani veterans to come and work with him. (Source: New York Times 9.21.98).