Statement at the Opening Ceremony of the Arab Summit

"For me, as the Secretary General of the OAU, to be invited at this occasion is yet another manifestation of the consolidation of the historical connection between the people of this region and their African brothers and sisters. It underlines the inseparable and historical bond between our two peoples and our two Organizations. For many centuries there has been strong cooperation in the areas of commerce, diplomacy and culture between Africa and Arab nations." - Dr. Salim, March 27, 2001