Ibn Rushd (Averroes), a champion of tolerance and co-existence, says Crown Prince
Regional-Morocco-Spain, Culture, 10/15/1998

Arab philosopher Ibn Rushd (Averroes) has succeeded in establishing on sound foundations the values of tolerance and cultural and religious co-existence," said crown prince Sidi Mohammed in a message to participants in an international conference which opened Wednesday in Seville - Spain to commemorate the 8th centenary of the scholar's death.

In the message that was read out by Moroccan foreign minister, Abdellatif Filali, at the conference that was opened by Spanish Crown Prince Felipe of Asturias, the crown prince recalled that the Arab philosopher and physician lived in the Spanish cities of Cordoba, Seville and Malaga and in Marrakesh and pointed out that his trips bear testimony to "the cultural and civilizational relations that existed between the two countries."

After he called for the need to return to these values of tolerance and co-existence, the prince said the world should draw inspiration from his life to build new relations based on cultural openness and permanent dialogue.

The crown prince's message went on that the kings of Morocco and Spain, Hassan II and Juan Carlos I, who are precisely endeavoring for the consolidation of these virtues, incarnate the spirit of co-existence, understanding and openness.

He added that this encounter, a return to this outstanding reference of the history of Morocco and Spain, should be used to build a joint future of efficient cooperation and partnership as a model for regional cooperation among Mediterranean countries.

Various cultural events, exhibitions of historical and archeological items from Moroccan, Spanish and Portuguese museums will be held in commemoration of the 8th centenary of the death of Averroes.

The congress will hold sessions in other Spanish cities before moving to Rabat next February and Marrakesh in March.

Chairman of the organizing committee said Averroes elaborated the 12th century thought and contributed to the transfer of the cultural heritage from the Arab world to Europe and to the thriving of various sciences, from philosophy to medicine.

Previous Stories:
  Morocco is resolute about human rights promotion, minister says   (10/14/1998)
  Averroes 800th anniversary celebrated, Arabs awaken Europe from Dark Ages   (6/8/1998)
  Arab historic personalities in science   (5/26/1998)

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