We firmly and consistently support the observance of universal Human Rights and the national characteristics and traditions of countries, which have crystallized over a long historical period, must be taken into consideration," Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova, said in a statement posted on the ministry's website.

She Continues to reject attempts to politicize human rights issues." We believe that Saudi Arabia, which has taken the path of huge social and economic transformations, has full sovereign right to determine how to move forward in this important area."

"These issues may require constructive advice and assistance, but not a peremptory tone of moral superiority." She said. 

The Canadian embassy in Riyadh has called on the Saudi authorities in a tweet to release dozens of activists and lawyers arrested by Riyadh on malicious charges, while Saudi Arabia responded by severing relations with Ottawa and expelling the Canadian ambassador.