Jordan's King: Reforms in the Middle East Will Succeed Only If They Come from Within - 2004-04-17

King Abdullah of Jordan states that reforms in the Middle East are vital and will only be successful if they originate from within the region, rather than through external forces. The Wall Street Journal quotes King Abdullah saying, 'Not only do many Arabs lack trust in reforms inspired by the Western world, but they also take pride in the 'human values of Islam' and believe that Muslim nations are capable of forming a peaceful and democratic government. Late last year, President Bush called for reforms in the Middle East that would provide the people of the region with more democracy. Meanwhile, last month, the Arab League summit was canceled due to ongoing divisions among Arab nations regarding human rights, democracy, and the rejection of extremism by the Tunisian summit organizers. King Abdullah mentioned in the Friday edition of the Wall Street Journal that the reform process, including political reforms, educational standards, eliminating discrimination against women, and ending direct government control over radio and television, is currently taking shape in his country. King Abdullah is currently in the U.S. for a visit and is expected to discuss issues such as the Israel-Palestine situation, the conditions in Iraq, and questions regarding the economy and investment with President Bush and several other American officials next week.