14th Islamic Conference Opens
Regional, Religion, 5/21/2002

The conference entitled "the reality of Islam in a changeable world" was attended by delegations representing 75 nations including 18 Arab states, six Islamic organizations and 200 men of religion, 25 non-Moslems.

The inaugural session was attended by Grand Imam of Al Azhar Mohamed Sayed Tantawi, Minister of Al Waqfs and Head of the Higher Council for Islamic Affairs Dr. Mahmoud Hamdi Zaqzouq, Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria, Secretary General of the Higher Council for Islamic Affairs Dr. Abdel Sabour Marzougi and Secretary General of the Islamic World League Abdullah Ben Abdel Mohsen Al Torki.

The session was also attended by a large number of ambassadors of Arab and Islamic nations.

Addressing the gathering, Zaqzouq stressed that the objective of the conference is to probe the reasons that led to the present wrong interpretation of the Islamic religion, its principles and values.

He noted that the deplorable September 11 events would have their deep impact on the history of mankind for a long period.

He stressed the importance of holding a genuine and fruitful dialogue as contemporary events are of interest to all mankind.

Despite the fact that the world is not ignorant of Islam, a religion that has served humanity along several centuries with its flourishing civilization which left its impact on world civilization in general and the western one in particular, attempts to mar and blemish this long history of blooming civilization are relentless and have increased in recent times.

This calls for a serious confrontation at all levels to clarify the true image of Islam, noting that the world is in need of Muslims and vice versa.

Isolation is no longer possible in today's world, he added.

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