Clinton warns Arab leaders, Middle East will ’sink into sand’ if extremism not stopped

DOHA - US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is currently on a tour of Arab countries, has reportedly told leaders of those countries that the Middle East could ’sink into the sand,’ of chaos caused by extremists if they fail to liberalise their political system.

“In too many places, in too many ways, the region’s foundations are sinking into the sand. The new and dynamic Middle East that I have seen needs firmer ground if it is to take root and grow everywhere,” The New York times quoted Clinton, as saying.

Speaking during a conference in Doha on Thursday, she said that though she was happy with signs of progress in Qatar and elsewhere, lack of economic progress and growing terrorism in that country is a concern of the United States.

“Those who cling to the status quo may be able to hold back the full impact of their countries’ problems for a little while, but not forever. Extremist elements, terrorist groups and others who would prey on desperation and poverty are already out there, appealing for allegiance and competing for influence,” she added.

Earlier in Abu Dhabi, Clinton had praised Democratic Representative Gabrielle Giffords, adding that extremists must be stopped both in the Middle East and in America.

Talking to an Arabic television show, she had said that extremists are widely spread in different societies, but they can be defeated with openness and tolerance. (ANI)