Cairo International Islamic Conference

Deliberations and activities of the 15th meeting of the International Islamic Conference were opened in Cairo on Friday. Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak called on the Islamic countries to boost ties and solidarity among them in service of joint interests and just causes.

Mubarak spoke of the deteriorated situation in Iraq and the war on Iraq calling for intensified collective work for realizing right, justice, just and comprehensive peace.

Malaysian Premier, Mahatir Muhammad underlined the importance of a unified Islamic stance for confronting challenges and dangers facing the Islamic countries.

For his part, Pope Shenouda III called for using the Arab states resources and wealth for boosting strength among them and for achievement of the comprehensive development. The Pope criticized the U.S. bias to Israel.

The four-day conference will discuss developments, hindrances and obstacles which are facing the Islamic world on economic and social levels in addition to the Islamic world's future and its role in defining its policy and destiny.