Concerns over the regional situation and its impact on Arab people dominated Arab officials' speeches at the opening session of Monday's foreign ministers' preparatory meeting, reported the Jordan Times. Arab League Secretary General Ahmed Abul Gheit noted that the concerns of Arabs today are "justifiable" in light of what the region is witnessing. "Arab individuals from all countries are sensing the wounds of their brothers living in crises zones... They are hostages of fear and panic, and subject of killing and displacement," he said. Yet, he pointed out that the encouraging fact is that "the hearts of Arabs" were still alive, citing the way Arab countries accommodated refugees as "a healthy sign... amid the darkness". Hel underlined the need to provide all means of support to countries who have hosted thousands of refugees, especially Jordan and Lebanon. The foreign ministers reached consensus on several regional issues and came up with draft resolutions to be referred to Arab leaders for endorsement on Wednesday. Most of the proposed decisions were related to the Palestinian cause. — Agencies
