This is with reference to the article “ASPA— a stitch in time” (Nov. 12) by Sabria S. Jawhar. I do agree with the writer that it is important for Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states to find new avenues to expand their commercial interests and to forge new alliances. This, however, should not come at the expense of the relations between the Gulf states and the US.

It is true that the US’ policies toward the Arab world has not been very consistent but we cannot and should not distance ourselves from the US.

Every country has the right to pursue policies to protect its interests abroad. Instead of criticizing the US, the Arab analysts should try to come up with ideas to bolster US-Arab ties. US President Barack Obama is usually accused of inaction and blamed for the turmoil in the Middle East. I don’t agree with people who target Obama. He had inherited the current mess at a time the world was facing economic crunch. Criticizing a country or an individual is the easiest thing to do. Through their articles, Saudi writers should try to come up with new ideas for the peaceful resolution of all the issues. Anti-US rhetoric is not going to resolve any problem. We should try to be more realistic in our approach.

Tahir Khan

Dammam