This is with reference to the report “Kingdom, Turkey enter ‘a new era of cooperation’” (March 3). It is heartening to note that two of the most important Muslim countries are getting closer. The Muslim world is currently in disarray and there is a great need for close cooperation between key Muslim countries to steer the Muslim world out of the ongoing turmoil. Since the ascension to the throne Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman is proactively working to find solutions to the problems facing the Ummah.

Riyadh and Ankara are the two key Muslim capitals with considerable weightage in the international community. We can no longer think and act in isolation, as most of the current problems in the region are interconnected. Muslim countries should forge unity among their ranks and counter the threats together. The recent hike in diplomatic activities in Riyadh clearly indicates that Muslim leaders are fully aware of the challenges and are more than willing to face the situation head-on.

The credit, however, goes to King Salman who is undoubtedly a dynamic leader of the Muslim world. Turkish President Recep Teyyip Erdogan also commands great respect among Muslims. Erdogan has successfully put his country on the road to progress. I urge Erdogan to tread carefully, as the Muslim world cannot afford to see Turkey plunging into chaos.

Saeed Ahmed

Jeddah