WASHINGTON - Some of the most generous contributors to former President Bill Clinton’s foundation are world leaders that his wife, Secretary of State-designee Hillary Clinton, will engage as the nation’s top diplomat.

According to a list of donors released on Clinton’s Web site this morning, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia donated between $10 million and $25 million. Next came Norway, which gave in excess of $5 million, followed by the states of Kuwait and Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman, which each gave between $1 million and $5 million.

“I want to personally express my deepest appreciation to our many contributors, who remain steadfast partners in our work to impact the lives of so many around the world in measurable and meaningful ways,” Clinton said in a statement. “We have just begun and it is an honor and privilege to be on this journey alongside each and every person who is committed to our foundation’s ongoing charitable mission.”

This identity of President Clinton’s donors was not lost on the transition team of President-elect Barack Obama, which thoroughly examined President Clinton’s records before offering the State Department reins to one-time rival Hillary Clinton.

Other donors, included:

• The Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and UNITAID were the foundation’s largest donors, each organization contributing more than $25 million.
• The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation donated between $10 million and $25 million
• Denise Rich, wife of financier Marc Rich, who received a controversial pardon from Clinton on his way out of the White House, gave between $250,001 and $500,000.

The foundation’s relationship didn’t deter the Obama team from welcoming Clinton to the cabinet, but will it cause Congress to think twice when it convenes to discuss the Clinton appointment?