Build bridges don't bomb them, urges Euro MP
January 9, 2003 12:00 AM
Speaking today after taking part in a conference on Liberalism in Christianity and Islam organised by the European Liberal Democrats, West Midlands MEP Liz Lynne yet again urged the Prime Minister to justify his actions on Iraq.
Liz commented:
"I have spent the day listening to a number of experts give their views on the relationship between Muslims and Christians in the world today and it has only served to make me more resolute in my opposition to going to war with Iraq."
"We are building up troops in the Middle East while government ministers cannot even agree on the likelihood of us going to war.
"I have yet to see any conclusive evidence that Iraq poses any tangible threat to ourselves or any other country. The notion that Iraq is in cahoots with Al Qaeda has proven groundless, despite being the basis for much Washington rhetoric immediately following September 11. Iraq is no friend of religious extremism and Al Qaeda is no friend of the secular state of Iraq."
"Terrorism grows from poverty, injustice and suffering and I can think of no better way to boost the ranks of Al Qaeda than starting an unjust war with the people of Iraq being the main casualties.
"To counter terrorism we must address the conditions that allow it to flourish, such as poverty, ignorance and isolationism. The EU has taken a leading role in fostering links with over 150 bilateral agreements with other countries to encourage trade, aid and understanding; the US has less than 10 similar initiatives worldwide. It is only through this dissemination of ideals, culture and wealth that we can suffocate the breeding grounds of terrorism. Bombing Iraq will achieve what Osama Bin Laden could only dream of in promoting anti-Western sentiment."
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