Unbelievable, but true:

In what Arab foreign ministers are calling a critically important document, agreement has been reached on language endorsing greater democracy and human rights throughout the Arab world.
Following three days of talks aimed at setting the agenda for summit, Algerian foreign minister Abdelaziz Belkhadem said the foreign ministers agreed to a document endorsing a system of greater democracy.

Mr. Balkhadem said the League has agreed it is necessary for Arab countries to establish democratic practices, including making court systems independent, greater freedom and human rights for citizens and greater rights for women.

Rarely has the Arab League adopted official documents dealing with issues of internal political change.

The League added that the Bush Administration’s call for Arab democracy had nothing to do with their decision.

Amazing.

(link via Smash)