Conference to set norms for inter-faith dialogue

Riyadh: The international Islamic conference, which will begin in Makkah on Wednesday, will set guidelines for dialogue between Muslims and followers of other religions and cultures.

"The conference would discuss the basis for dialogue with other faiths in the light of the Quran and Sunnah. It will also review past experiences in the field to make use of them," said Dr Abdullah Al Turki, secretary-general of the Makkah-based Muslim World League.

Dr Al Turki told reporters Islamic leaders, scholars, intellectuals as well as officials of Islamic centres and associations and university professors from around the world will participate in the June 4 conference.

"Invitations have already been sent to the dignitaries to attend the conference," he said. "The conference will be a serious attempt to counter effectively the smear campaign being unleashed against Islam, Prophet Mohammad [Peace Be Upon Him] and the Quran worldwide. It will highlight the true image of Islam, which is a religion of peace and tolerance."

The conference will focus on four pivotal topics, such as the basis of dialogue in Islam, the methodology and principles of dialogue, parties involved, and areas of dialogue.

"The first session of the three-day event will discuss a number of research papers on the concept of dialogue and its objectives in the Quran and Sunnah and experiences of cultural dialogue throughout history.

"Working papers on a number of topics such as mechanisms of dialogue and the importance of coordination among Islamic organisations in holding dialogue with other faiths will be presented in the following sessions."

Dr Al Turki said the conference underscores the significance of the recent initiative of King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz for holding a reinforced dialogue between Islam, Christianity and Judaism.

Respect for others

The Joint Council for Cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council and European Union on Tuesday hailed the initiative of King Abdullah to have an interfaith dialogue.

The council underscored the importance of respecting other religions and cultures and rejecting all forms of intolerance and hatred. It also seeks to promote political dialogue based on mutual respect.