Saudi Arabia has been in the lead in exposing the dangers of terrorism and intellectual extremism and in confronting them with the force and approach of deterrence, said the Kingdom's interior minister.

Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz, the Second Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Saudi Arabia, was speaking at 'The Conference of Terrorism Between Intellectual Extremism and Extremist Ideology' on Sunday in Washington.

The counterterrorism conference is being held at the directive of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz and was organized by the Islamic University of Madinah in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior.

In his opening remarks, Prince Nayef addressed a variety of issues, including countering extremist ideologies, the efforts of Saudi security forces, the role of women in Saudi society and the media.

Addressing the Kingdom's leadership role in the global effort to fight terrorism and criminal ideologies, the minister said, 'Saudi Arabia has been in the forefront of countries affected by intellectual extremism and extremist ideology, in which some of those who belong to the Kingdom have drifted, and have not pursued its approach and principles derived from the Holy Qur'an and Prophet's Sunnah based on moderation, justice, mercy, preservation of human dignity and the protection of human life and rights.'

On the role of women in countering extremism, Prince Nayef said, ''Women play a big role in contributing along with their brothers, fathers and husbands in preserving the youth from slipping into the dangers in every field, protecting their morals and adhering to their religion.'

On Saudi Arabia and King Abdullah's role as a regional and international leader in counterterrorism initiatives, the minister said, 'Thanks to the intensive efforts, directives and support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince to men faithful to their country and the leadership and for the stability, security, economic activities, development in all fields, investment, freedom of every citizen and resident, the Kingdom has been one of the best in stability, security and economy not only in our region but also all over world.'

Prince Nayef concluded his remarks by responding to a question about the responsibility of Saudi media in reporting on terrorism.

'Media is effective in the society and we should deal with the situation with knowledge. Our Saudi media should move ahead stronger and larger to face this situation, but with commitment and responsibility, and in a way that raises the situation of the homeland,' he remarked.

'It is not in the interest of our religion and daily lives to depend on faults without verification,' Prince Nayef added.-TradeArabia News Service