Importance of Manama Dialogue stressed

Manama, Oct. 30 (BNA): Executive Director of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)-Middle East Sir John Jenkins stressed the importance of the Manama Dialogue in spotlighting security challenges and their effect on the development opportunities in the Middle East. He added that the region has undergone hard phases for many years, pointing out the situation in Iraq, Libya and Lebanon. He also underlined the major challenge posed by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) terrorist organisation and other extremist groups, pointing out that such issues need concerted efforts to be handled. He also added that the 11th edition of the Manama Dialogue will convene while other meetings are being held in Vienna on Syria. Sir Jenkins underscored the importance of the forum for, he said, it doesn't only aim to end conflicts but also to map out economic development schemes. He added that despite being a hot spot, the Middle East offers a wide range of economic opportunities which have to be explored for the sake of security, peace and welfare.