Indonesian Muslim figures ask Blair to change approach in fighting terrorism

Indonesian Muslim figures have asked British Prime Minister Tony Blair to change his unilateral approach in favor of the multilateral mechanism under the United Nations in his support to the United States in the war on terrorism, a spokesman for the Muslim figures said.

The request was made in a meeting between Blair and five Muslim figures at the presidential office here Thursday, Antara news agency quoted Din Syamsuddin, chairman of the second largest Muslim organization, Muhammadiyah, as saying.

The unilateral approach of Britain and the United States, especially in their invasion of Iraq, would not solve the problem and cut the roots of terrorism, instead it would encourage radicalism, extremism, and new terrorism, Din said.

The UN multilateral mechanism to solve various world problems, especially those related with the Islamic world, would be helpful to creating a peaceful and prosperous world, Din said.

"Specifically, we asked Britain to withdraw its troops from Iraq and we hope that Britain can work in cooperation with the Islamic world to materialize true partnership to develop a prosperous, peaceful, fair and civilized new world order," Din said.

He said the British premier admitted there was misunderstanding between the West and the Islamic World and the problem would be solved through the establishment of the UK-Indonesian Islamic Advisory Forum.

"To us, the dialogue was positive. Different opinions must be settled through dialogue," he added.

Blair arrived here Wednesday night for a two-day visit to Indonesia.

Source: Xinhua