From the plains of Central Asia…
There is a lively argument about how we, in liberal and tolerant Western societies, interact with more conservative Islamic societies. However, what perhaps many people do not realise is that there are big differences between Islamic countries themselves.
In the summer, I went to Kazakhstan, a Central Asian, former Soviet republic, which is the size of Europe, with a population of only 18 million. It is a constitutionally secular Islamic society with a substantial Russian minority. The population as a whole, both Russians and Kazakhs, wear their religions lightly.
Kazakhstan is now becoming hugely rich because of its enormous energy assets. It is very keen to make its mark on the world. Next month, the President, Mr Nazarbaev, will be visiting London. Important Kazakh companies have listed on the London Stock Exchange and are keen to be friendly with us.
Many people feel that if secular Islamic societies can succeed with full human and democratic rights, they could be a role model in the region.
Today, the lively Kazakhstan Ambassador in London, Mr Erlan Idrissov, is visiting my constituency. He will be meeting school pupils in Haverhill and seeing something of the racing industry in Newmarket – there is a long tradition of horsemanship in Kazakhstan.
He can be assured of a very warm welcome in Suffolk.