JEDDAH: Extremism and terrorism have led to a “weakening of the social fabric” in Arab states, an Arab Parliament conference in Cairo has been warned. The Parliament’s speaker, Dr. Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Salami, told the high-level forum that political militancy and terrorist activity had paved the way for external interference in some states, particularly by neighboring countries.

“Some of these countries have been able to establish groups within Arab states that owe them allegiance ... and benefit from inter-Arab conflicts,” he said.

Al-Salami made his remarks while presiding over the “Achieving Peace and Stability” conference at the Arab League’s headquarters on Saturday.

The forum was attended by former and current Arab heads of government and ministers, including Saudi Prince Turki Al-Faisal, chairman of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies.

In his opening statement, Al-Salami praised Saudi Arabia for its “pivotal role in maintaining Arab security” and called for greater solidarity among Arab states to deal with external interference.

“This should be based on a thorough and comprehensive vision that strengthens the Arab states and protects their sanctities,” he said.

“By holding this conference, the Arab Parliament is acknowledging the great challenges facing our region today. This move is in line with our people’s will.”

Al-Salami urged Arab leaders to reject conflict, saying: “This will enable us to thwart (those) targeting us and our Arab national security.”

The conference promotes “Arab solidarity and cooperation, allowing Arab states to confront current and future challenges and threats,” he said.

Al-Salami welcomed the Kingdom’s support for the Yemeni people and the establishment of the Arab coalition to support the legitimacy of Yemen.

The coalition will “restore the institutions of the Yemeni state, which were seized by the Iranian Houthi group by force,” Al-Salami said.

He also praised King Salman’s efforts to achieve peace and historic reconciliation between Ethiopia and Eritrea and between Djibouti and Eritrea to improve security in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa.

Al-Salami highlighted the Kingdom’s Neom project, launched with Egypt and Jordan, as an example of Arab economic integration that will also strengthen national security.