Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, a
leading figure in the Arab world, sprang a surprise today by saying he would miss an Arab summit here aimed at forging a policy on peace with Israel.
Mr Mubarak's decision, due to domestic Egyptian problems according to his foreign minister, came amid continued uncertainty over Israel's intentions to ground another key regional player, Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.
Mr Mubarak had told a Lebanese newspaper that he would be coming to Beirut, although in the same interview he advised Mr Arafat to stay away because Israel was making life too difficult for him.
However, Washington, a key financial supporter of Egypt, suggested the news of a Mr Mubarak no-show was premature, after earlier urging Arab leaders to back the summit peace aims whether or not Israel allows Mr Arafat to attend.
The two-day summit is to debate a Saudi initiative for achieving peace with Israel which had put Mr Mubarak somewhat in the shade, though Foreign Minister Ahmed Maher insisted that Cairo gave it full support.
Mr Mubarak's decision meant that half of the leaders of the 22 members of the Arab League would not be in Beirut to hear Saudi Crown Prince Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz give details of his proposals.
AFP