Muslim leaders back interfaith dialogue

MUSLIM leaders in the Philippines have expressed support for continuing interfaith dialogue to achieve peace in the country.

Dr. Aboulkhair Tarason, vice chairman of the National Ulama Conference of the Philippines, said the recent International Workshop of Faith-Based Groups and Civil Society in Manila should lead to “an understanding of one another.”

Amina Rasul, lead convenor of the Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy, recalled that the theme of the Third National Ulama Summit held in January was “A Common Word Toward a Common Peace.”

“A Common Word” is the title of the letter Muslim scholars sent to Pope Benedict XVI in support of an interfaith dialogue and mutual acceptance.

“The adoption of this theme by the ulama highlights the imperative for interfaith cooperation and, more importantly, the recognition by the Muslim religious community of its role in fostering pluralism and mutual acceptance of all faiths to facilitate the attainment of collective peace and security,” Rasul said.

The IWFC issued a statement underscoring the need for Non-Aligned Movement member countries to address the challenges confronting interfaith dialogue and religious freedom as these underpin sustainable peace and development.

For report