An opportunity missed by OIC

The recent OIC meeting that was attended by 57 foreign ministers who represent the World's Islamic nations was perhaps disappointing inasmuch as they appear not to have taken up the issue of terrorism, which certainly exists within some of their own member countries.

Their unanimous decision, not only to condemn the Sept. 11 attacks on America but also to show their solidarity in the isolation and condemnation of the radical ideology that is the Taliban regime, was both commendable, and most certainly in line with the opinion of every other decent thinking human being.

But what about the opportunity to look within their own organization and say "why don't we put our own house in order so that the Americans, or whoever, have no need to pursue this war on terrorism beyond Afghanistan"?

No one wants war, but where is the common sense and courage to face up to the realities of terrorism? At the very least, in Afghanistan there is now a possibility of peace, and a new government that will hopefully fulfill its obligations. This inevitable ousting of the Taliban, which is already long overdue, must surely be seen, irrespective of the undesirable bombings, as a blessing in disguise.

Who sorts it all out at the end of the day and divides the spoils, to coin a most unsavory expression of war, will no doubt be decided by minds greater than mine, but whatever the outcome, I am sure that millions of Afghans will be thankful beyond words that at last they may soon have the opportunity to live in peace.

DAVID WALLIS

Medan, North Sumatra