Islamic trusts minister meets archbishop of Salzburg
Syria-Regional, Religion, 9/13/2005

Syria's Minister of Islamic Trusts (Waqf), Ziaduddin al-Ayyoubi, discussed on Monday with the Archbishop of the Austrian city of Salzburg, Alois Kothgasser and the accompanying delegation the role of religions in fostering ties of amity and fraternity in the world for the welfare of humanity and civilization.

The minister stressed the role of Moslem and Christian clergymen in strengthening the fraternal relations between the two religions, and the role of clergymen in refuting allegations and rejection of terrorism.

For his part, Archbishop Kothgasser said the message of Islam cannot be linked to terrorism, adding that religions care for humanity. He also pointed out to the role of Austrian positive Caritas Charity and its cooperation with the Syrian Association of Fraternity in caring for the needy, sick people and handicapped children.

The two sides talked about the charity projects being carried out in Syria, including the project of Kfar Cita village in the governorate of Tartous as the biggest project to offer assistance for those people of special needs. The project was sponsored by Caritas and Syrian Association.

The meeting was attended by the Austrian ambassador in Damascus, Karl Schrmek, and other Syrian spiritual figures.

The minister also discussed with the Turkish ambassador in Damascus, Khaled Civik, the joint projects under construction in Damascus, the technical cooperation to restore al-Tikeyya al-Suleimaniya, revive its culture and heritage and restore the ancient Qimari Hospital.

The minister stressed importance of enhancing the relations with the Turkish religious institution to highlight the joint historical and heritage milestones.

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