International Dialogue Centre Board Calls for Sustained Dialogue on Jerusalem

The Board Members of the “International Dialogue Centre” issued today the following statement:

“As Board Members of the International Dialogue Centre, we are deeply concerned for the present situation created in recent days about Jerusalem and express our sorrow. 

 

As religious leaders we look at the Holy City of Jerusalem with deep love because it is the City of Peace for all believers and for the entire humankind. Jerusalem’s religious heritage offers believers the solace that when they live according to their shared values of dialogue, respect, and empathy, they contribute to achieve lasting peace.

 

We believe that only a negotiated solution between Israelis and Palestinians can bring a stable and lasting peace.

 

We pray and urge that the international community be vigilant in respecting the status quo of the religious communities in Jerusalem and conformity with international law, as also strongly requested by religious leaders all over the world. 

 

As stated by many leaders we join in calling to wisdom and prudence and as International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID), we offer our support in encouraging mutual understanding”.

 

About the International Dialogue Centre Board of Directors

The International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID) is an intergovernmental organization mandated to promote dialogue among different religious and cultural groups to promote justice, peace and reconciliation and to counteract the abuse of religion to justify violence. The Centre is governed by a multi-religious Board of Directors, consisting of representatives of five religions: Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism.

The Board Members are: Dr. Hamad Al-Majed, Dr. Kezevino Aram, His Excellency Bishop Miguel Ayuso, His Eminence Metropolitan Emmanuel, Reverend Kosho Niwano, His Virtue Sheikh Ul-Islam A. Pashazade, Reverend Mark Poulson, Chief Rabbi David Rosen and Dr. Mohammad Sammak.