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US State Secretary: Islamic countries have to lead anti-extremism efforts

RIYADH, April 29 (KUNA) -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in Riyadh Sunday that the Islamic states have to lead the efforts to combat extremism and violence.
The US is ready to stand by Saudi Arabia to realize common security and interests, Pompeo told a press conference with Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir as the Secretary concluded a two-day visit to the Kingdom.
Pompeo recalled what President Trump stressed in a summit in the Saudi capital last year, namely the nations of the Middle East cannot wait for American power to crush this enemy (terrorism) for them. They have to do their fair share and fulfills their part of the burden.
Pompeo noted that just like President Trump, his first visit overseas carried him to Saudi Arabia, a major US partner.
For his part, Al-Jubeir said the two countries are bound by historical ties and a deep-rooted strategy, pointing to common interests on various tracks, economic, security, military, educational, commercial and social.
He noted that the US is the top investor in the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia is among the biggest investors in the US.
Al-Jubeir added that he had positive, fruitful and constructive talks with Pompeo on challenges in the region and conditions in Lebanon, Syria and Yemen, as well as supporting Iraq and the African Sahel countries. Iran's negative interference in the region also featured high on the talks.
The visiting US State Secretary had met with King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crow Prince Mohammad bin Salman. (Pick up previous) mda.msa