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Madrid interfaith conference to focus on core issues facing humanity
Muslim World League says meet will not touch any ideological issues but focus on common factors affecting followers of different religions
- By Mariam Al Hakeem, Correspondent
- Published: 23:40 July 15, 2008
Madrid: About 200 prominent leaders and scholars representing world's major religions and civilisations have gathered here to discuss the vital issues concerning humanity. The focal point of discussions at the Global Interfaith Conference, which will kick off here today, will be the common factors affecting humanity, according to Dr Abdullah Al Turki, secretary general of the Muslim World League (MWL), the main organiser of the event.
Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz will open the three-day event at the historic palace here this morning. King Juan Carlos of Spain and Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero will be the main dignitaries to address the opening session.
Addressing a press conference on the eve of the conference, Dr Al Turki said the conference will not touch any ideological or religious issues but focus on the common factors affecting the followers of different religions, cultures and civilisations.
Shared vision
"At this conference, we will aim to focus on a shared world vision far removed from the religious discords and political differences, and lay the basis for the followers of various heavenly religions to initiate dialogue over matters of common concern," he said.
Speaking to Gulf News, Dr Izzuddine Ebrahim, president of the UAE Department for Cultural Affairs, appreciated the key role being played by King Abdullah for enhancing bonds of ties among followers of various religions. "The Makkah Dialogue Conference, convened as per the directives of King Abdullah, laid the foundations for Muslims to hold effective dialogue with followers of other religions. This, no doubt, will help further bolster relations between various sections of world people and promote their peaceful coexistence," he said.
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