RIYADH: Islamic Affairs Minister Saleh Al-Asheikh emphasized on Monday the need to develop scientific methods to cope with deviant ideology.

The minister was speaking of two bombings that occurred in the Eastern Province recently, killing innocent people and injuring many others.

Addressing a high-profile meeting in Riyadh, Al-Asheikh said that scholars had a great responsibility to counter deviant thoughts and extremists who target the country’s youth.

He noted in this regard the efforts made by the ministry and other relevant government agencies, and programs to counter terrorism. He stressed the need to develop the means of confronting deviant ideology by scientific and intellectual means and by using social media.

Among those present at the meeting were Dr. Tawfiq Abdul Aziz Al-Sudairy and Abdullah Al-Asheikh.

The heads and representatives of various departments for the management of scientific and intellectual awareness and the Institute of Imams and Preachers were also present.