Arab summit should focus on unity

It is important that positions on various issues that are being faced by the Arab world are directly and openly addressed. The Arab Summit which begins its deliberations in Doha today is a platform where stances of disagreement can be voiced. Boycotting the summit is a measure that is counterproductive as it widens the divide.

Many Arab countries have confirmed their attendance at the summit. Yet the uncertainty surrounding the participation of the few is not a positive sign. The Arab world is facing a number of critical issues that need to be tackled immediately.

For one thing, the mounting pressure on Sudan and the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against Sudanese President Omar Al Bashir is one of the main issues that would require a unified Arab stance. In addition, the suffering of the Palestinians has to be addressed which should be within the larger context of the derailed peace process. Arab leaders have warned that the Arab peace initiative would no longer be on offer if Israel continues with its belligerent policies.

The Arab world also has to address the situation in Iraq and the US withdrawal plan. The stability of Iraq is a concern for all its Arab neighbours. Iran's relationship vis-a-vis the Arab world is also an area that demands to be discussed and agreed upon with unity and consensus.

The list of critical issues to be discussed at the summit is long. Not only do they need to be discussed but solutions have to be found as well. "We have to live up to our responsibilities and work towards closing ranks," said Shaikh Hamad Bin Jasem Bin Jabr Al Thani, Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. Yet such an approach would prove to be impossible if disagreements become the dominant factor on the agenda.