The Controversial Cartoons

Recently I read an article in the newspaper in our local papers which left me slapping my forehead with my palm and saying - "You have got to be kidding me..."

NATO's Pick An Affront To Muslims

The article talks about the deteriorating situation in Afghan and the concerns about neighbouring Pakistan which highlights the need for NATO members to increase their contributions to the Afghan mission.

What was shocking is that "NATO is about to name as its new Secretary General, a figure whom millions of Muslims detest more than almost any other European - Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen of Denmark." I am sure we all remember the controversial cartoons in a Danish news publication which depicted Prophet Mohammed in unacceptable ways in a Copenhagen news publication - what's interesting was that Mr Rasmussen was then the Prime Minister of Denmark. It was reported that when the Ambassadors from 11 Muslim countries requested to meet and discuss the situation - he refused to do so!!!

In my opinion that was not only shocking but purely senseless; i get the whole idea of Denmark's freedom of expression but this move was simply undiplomatic. Presented with such an opportunity to calm things before a storm breaks out, Mr. Rasmussen chose to add fuel to the fire and the result was widespread riots & protests which endangered Danish people and embassies overseas. Even though the publication was in 2005, the incident is still fresh in our minds and it will be long before it is forgotten...

The author alludes to the idea that now the Taliban and its Al Qaeda allies across the border in

Pakistan will gain traction in its recruitment and support for its cause as it portrays NATO as being guided by its hatred for Islam.

I have a tendency to believe the views of the author and I think the appointment is sordidly tasteless. Unless Mr. Rasmussen can demonstrate that he has learned some painful lessons from 2005 and that NATO's choice in candidacy was driven by motivations to understand Islam and push the Afghan mission forward...i have a feeling there will be tumultuous times ahead for NATO.