It is very heartening to read about a flurry of diplomatic activities in Riyadh. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman is wasting no time in forging unity among the Muslim countries and making all-out efforts to contain the threats facing the Arab and the Muslim world.

The number of dignitaries visiting Riyadh clearly indicates Saudi Arabia’s position in the Muslim world. Home to the two holy cities of Islam, Saudi Arabia commands great respect among Muslims all over the world. Beyond any shadow of doubt, this holy land is the center of Islam.

King Salman is actively taking measures to chalk out a comprehensive strategy to fight the evils plaguing the Muslim world. It is very important for all Muslim countries to set aside their petty differences and work together to fight the menace of terrorism and the western intellectual propaganda targeting Muslims and Islam.

All Muslim countries should try to protect each other’s interest. Unity is very important to face today’s challenges. We don’t wish to see the Muslim world on a collision course with the West but it is very important to tell the western world that we condemn terrorism and any effort to malign our religion will be countered effectively.

The visit of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sissi, Turkish President Recep Teyyip Erdogan and the upcoming visit of Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is a positive sign. Pakistan may be facing various difficulties on numerous fronts but it is an important country being the only nuclear Muslim power. Similarly, Egypt and Turkey are two most important Muslim countries. The visit of these dignitaries to the center of Islam indicates that a positive change is just round the corner.

All the credit goes to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman who since the ascension to the throne is working overtime to resolve the current crisis.

Azlan Tariq

Riyadh