(VOVworld) - Military chiefs from 39 countries met on Sunday in Riyadh for talks on a Saudi-initiated international ‘anti-terrorism’ coalition and to lay the ground work ahead of a ministerial-level meeting of member states.

Military chiefs from 39 countries met in Riyadh (Photo: AFP)

Saudi Arabia announced the creation of the Islamic Military Alliance (IMA) in December, saying its members would share intelligence, counter violent ideology, and deploy troops if necessary to combat extremists. Saudi Brigadier General Ahmed al-Assiri said this coalition complements previous efforts in the fight against terrorist groups. He said Saudi Arabia has offered premises and funds for an Alliance coordination center in Riyadh. The coalition will operate within the limits of ‘UN resolutions and recognized conventions’ and respect the sovereignty of member states.