Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh today opened the fourth ASEAN Countries Conference, organised by his ministry in Cambodia. Ministers, scholars, researchers and Islamic figures from Saudi Arabia and ASEAN countries attended, along with ambassadors of Arab and Islamic states accredited to Cambodia.

Delivering the Kingdom's address, Al Alsheikh said the conference reflects deep brotherly ties and constructive cooperation among those working in Islamic affairs.

He said it comes as the world faces successive wars and turmoil, calling for more constructive effort and serious cooperation to preserve Islamic identity and protect sound belief from both extremism and negligence, or from alienation and dissolution. He stressed that the Muslim nation can attain honour only through a sincere return to the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.

Cambodian Minister in Charge of Special Mission (Islamic Affairs) Dr. Othsman Hassan welcomed participants, praised Saudi Arabia's service to Islam and Muslims and its promotion of moderation and balance, commended its programmes to strengthen ties with Islamic institutions and figures in ASEAN countries, and expressed appreciation that Cambodia was chosen to host the fourth edition.

Scientific sessions began after the opening. Five sessions on the first day deal with the features and concept of the moderate approach and the challenges it faces, moderation in belief, worship, ethics, conduct and methodology, its merits, and the main threats to it.