"Imams and preachers in mosques have a significant role in creating awareness among citizens and expatriates against ideological and religious extremism," Prince Naif said while approving the plan.
In a related development, Minister of Islamic Affairs Saleh Al-Asheikh submitted to Prince Naif details of two programs to strengthen the role of imams and preachers in fighting extremist ideologies, a source in the ministry said.
"The programs aim at elevating the level of interaction of imams and preachers in combating terror and achieving ideological security apart from boosting patriotism," the source said.
The first program involves organizing monthly seminars for imams and preachers to promote moderation and equip them to counter ideological deviations particularly extremist and takfir (branding opponents as infidels) tendencies and strengthening the ties between the ministry and preachers.
