UK MP addresses Islamic Conference for first time

For the first time ever, a British Minister has spoken at the Organisation for Islamic Conference. Baroness Warsi, the daughter of a Pakistani immigrant, and a practicing Muslim, addressed the 38th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers in Kazakhstan today.  Her speech focused on building Britain’s relations with the Muslim world, strengthening partnerships in trade, development and global security. She highlighted the importance of a unified approach to solving the world’s problems. “In today’s ever changing world, we can either face these challenges together, work together in unity with greater effectiveness, or as people we will grow apart.” She also expressed dismay at extremists “who claim that the West is at war with Islam” and that “Islam and Democracy do not mix”, saying that her life as a British Muslim is proof that these obstacles are not insurmountable. The Minister spoke about the Arab Spring, which she called “a special time in history”. She expressed hope, saying that “the seeds of democracy have been sown” but cautioned that “real change will take time”. Warsi guaranteed that “in these uncertain times, the UK Government and the international community stands ready to work with the countries of the Middle East and North Africa in partnership…” The speech also reiterated the UK’s commitment to “stay the course” in Afghanistan and called on the region’s leaders to become “strategic partners” in developing solutions for the issues facing the Muslim world today.