RIYADH: Shoura Council members have urged the Islamic Affairs Ministry to develop a strong religious message to confront extremism.

The council made 14 decisions to support the Ministry in this regard, the members said, adding that the same were not implemented fully.

They said that extremist groups have started to mobilize children and youth, adding that the ministry has not offered enough support in that respect.

Abdullah Al-Fifi said that one of the most important obstacles is the non-approval of financial aid to implement anti-extremism programs.

Abdullah Al-Harbi wondered about the nature of support received by charitable societies from the ministry, saying they suffer from lack of planning.

He subsequently called for an increase in the numbers of trained imams, and a review of the situation of the mosques, especially those found on roadsides.