Interior Minister Prince Naif yesterday called for intensive efforts to save Iraq from its present predicament and to stand firm against destructive forces. Addressing a meeting of interior ministers of countries neighboring Iraq in Kuwait City, he also warned Iraqis working to destabilize their country that history would not show any mercy to them.Prince Naif refuted suggestions that the meeting was aimed at protecting the interests of Iraq’s neighbors rather than Iraq. “All countries meeting here are deeply concerned with the situation in Iraq as we are linked with the bond of brotherhood and faith,” the prince told the meeting, which was attended by ministers from Iran, Iraq, Egypt, Turkey, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan and Syria.
The conference, which was the fourth of its kind, discussed how to help Iraq get out of its present security difficulties. It also focused on ways of countering terrorism and curbing smuggling and infiltration across the border. “We have to participate in every effort that will help alleviate the suffering of Iraqi people,” the prince said. However, he emphasized that Iraqi people must take the lead in the efforts to restore peace and security in their country. “If they fail to do so…it will not only destroy Iraq but will also endanger the security and stability of neighboring countries. And any instability in this sensitive region will have a negative effect on the whole world.”
Prince Naif said the terrorist groups in Iraq were harming Islam and Muslims. “Muslims have already realized this fact and enlisted them among their enemies.”
The ministers participating in the meeting reiterated their support for Iraq to restore its security and stability. KuwaitÂ’s Deputy Premier and Defense and Interior Minister Sheikh Jabir Mubarak Al-Sabah emphasized the need for Iraqi reconciliation to restore the countryÂ’s stability.