The Premier yesterday hailed Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah for hosting a crucial summit - one that will shape regional history. His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister, made his remarks in an exclusive interview with Akhbar Al Khaleej editor-in-chief Anwar Abdulrahman, days ahead of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation summit to be held in Mecca tomorrow.

History will record King Abdullah's vital summit initiative, for it is not an ordinary one, said the Premier. It is a crucial vehicle which will shape the political, economic and social realities facing the region.

Arab and Islamic leaders have a tough road ahead of them as they prepare to tackle these crucial issues, and they should enforce strict decisions to ensure safety and stability amidst some countries interfering in the internal affairs of others, particularly Gulf nations, said the Premier.

Prince Khalifa said the two-day summit was not just a gathering of Arab and Islamic nations. It would be a test for the security capabilities of the region and a key opportunity to find solutions internally and without foreign interference, he said.

He also expressed hope that the summit would come up with substantial resolutions to preserve the unity and security of the Arabian and Islamic land and prevent the dangers it faces, such as risks of civil wars and sectarian tensions.

"Today we are witnessing an unprecedented event, for each country has been busy or is unfortunately involved in internal problems. There hasn't been an Arab and Islamic presence yet," he said.

"Despite the human rights violations faced by several Arab and Islamic nations, which can be tackled only by an united front, we have not seen an Arab or Islamic movement as yet.

"Let the calls for co-operation between Arab and Islamic countries be sent from Saudi Arabia to support Arab and Islamic causes and to put our co-operation back on the right path."