TUNIS: Arab nations need a unified front to counter their enemies who are bent on undermining their security, stealing their wealth and impoverishing their people, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Naif, deputy premier and interior minister said on Wednesday.

These enemies are operating inside and outside Arab states, and using political and economic measures to carry out their sectarian plans, he said.

Speaking at the 33rd meeting of the Arab Interior Ministers Council under the patronage of Tunisian President Al-Baji Qaid Al-Sibsi, Prince Mohammed said that the Arab world would be heading for disaster if a concerted effort was not made to counter these measures decisively.

Those present at the meeting had a “great responsibility” placed on their shoulders to ensure this does not happen. There could be no stability without security, he said.

Prince Mohammed, who is also honorary president of the council, said that Arab nations must ensure better cooperation and coordination in terms of security issues, which includes strengthening the role of religious, media, education and social groups in creating awareness about criminals operating covertly.

In his address, Al-Sibsi said the security situation in several Arab countries had deteriorated significantly, creating concern among surrounding nations.

He said Arab nations must reschedule their priorities and draft a new and comprehensive security strategy.

There was also a need for Arab nations to provide support for political, economic, social and cultural development. In addition, they must find solutions to their disputes and do everything they can to fight terrorism, poverty, racism and anti-Islamic behavior.

Among the participants at the meeting were representatives from the UN, Arab League, Gulf Cooperation Council, Arab Maghreb Union, Arab Broadcasting Union, Arab Tourism Organization, Interpol, and the Naif Arab University for Scientific Security.

Before the meeting, the Tunisian president and Prince Mohammed opened the Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Gallery at the council’s headquarters in recognition of his contribution to the Arab world.