3 rd World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace

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1 3 rd World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace The Sacredness of Peace Organised by Hommes de Parole Foundation in the framework of the UNESCO Interreligious Dialogue Programme UNESCO, Paris, from December , Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Production/media : 0

2 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Israel Palestine, Tomorrow peace will come Alain Michel Director - General of the Hommes de Parole Foundation It was the Imams and Rabbis of the Middle East who initiated the idea of the Third World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace, centred on peace between Israel and Palestine, convinced, as they were, that dialogue is the only tool for obtaining a just and lasting peace. This Congress will be a historic step. For the first time in the last 60 years, leading religious authorities from Israel, Palestine, Syria, Lebanon and Iran will be coming together for official meetings and thereby will participate in breaking a seeming deadlock. We must leave defeatism and fatalism behind. History has taught us that prior to 1948 Jews and Muslims had no problem understanding each other and living together. And now, unlike stereotypic opinions, the 11 million people living in the Middle East, both Israelis and Palestinians, nearly all are aspiring to peace. For their vocation is to be brothers and neighbours, not enemies. In 60 years, the governments have not been able to solve the longest conflict in modern times. From one failed peace process to the next we see that however more we move forward, however more we move apart It may, at long last, be the moment to recognise the obvious; to solve the problem requires the participation of the religious leaders in the negotiations, meetings and official discussion. In the present forced political vacuum, caused by the elections in Israel, Palestine and the United States, the words of the religious leaders take on special importance, especially since the politicians will not be able to fulfil the Annapolis commitment (November 2007) to sign a peace agreement before the end of The religious implications of this conflict, an essentially territorial conflict, cannot be ignored. Think of the consequences for the whole world if the Al Aqsa Mosque or the Wall of Lamentation were destroyed in an attack. It is not the calling of the religious leaders to take upon themselves the efforts incumbent on politicians to reach peace agreements, but there can be no question of passing them by. 1

3 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Israel Palestine, Tomorrow peace will come We know that religious leaders who have the power to go to war also have the power to contribute to peace, and that in this region of the world, today, peace can be achieved. The moment has come for the religious leaders to spread a common message of unity and open-mindedness so that government leaders will have the wisdom and the political will to overcome all obstacles to a future of shared, universal peace. These are the keys to true peace in the Middle East, peace which concerns a large part of the world since the elimination of the main causes to Israeli-Arab tension will spread to all the neighbouring countries. It behoves the religious leaders to condemn and delegitimise every act of violence committed in the name of God, once and for all, so that positive efforts emerging the world over are not be destroyed by fanatics. The religious leaders must repossess the word of God that has been stolen and perverted by the extremists. With the present exponential rise of terrorism, their silence could be interpreted as complicity and partial responsibility. This Congress here in UNESCO will permanently marginalise the fanatics and make them outlaws when men of Faith speak up with intellectual, spiritual and human courage to cast theological condemnation on all attacks on human life. These meetings will be a sign of hope, a strong voice to tell us that the crises we must face today must be accepted as opportunities for change and not as catastrophes. If all the Israeli and Palestinian religious leaders, together with other participants, commit to peace, here and now, commit themselves as custodians of the sacredness of life and peace, the people will unquestionably follow. Although many years of conflict are still inhibiting people from gently taking each other's hands, many indicators show that Israeli and Palestinian public opinion is ready to move forward. The commitment of the religious leaders will instigate their march towards genuine peace. This commitment will probably address people around the world by calling upon them to provide the support that allows public opinion to give governments the force to undertake useful political initiatives. And the dynamics of peace, generated by people who support the religious leaders and the countries' populations will make way for the pardon and reconciliation needed for the existence of a true Palestine and a true Israel. Alain Michel 2

4 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians His Excellency Abdoulaye Wade, President of the Republic of Senegal and President of the Eleventh Session of the Islamic Summit Conference honoured the Third World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace by attending the meeting. One people - One Goal - One Faith After being elected President of Senegal in 2000, he implemented his noble ideas for unity and peace in West Africa and for sustainable development. His actions, furthermore, have been recognised internationally. Among the many awards he received, let us mention the Henry Sylvester William gold medal for African renaissance, in 2003, and on 16 May 2006, at Unesco, he received the 2005 Félix Houphouët-Boigny award for his efforts to secure peace. The award was bestown by the Unesco Director General and the President of the Jury, Henry Kissinger, former U.S. Secretary of State and holder of the Nobel Peace Prize. We wish to recognise that the opening session of the Congress was addressed by a great artisan of peace President Wade started his speech by recalling the overriding importance of peace in the three great monotheistic religions and understanding among the believers of these three religions. He came to the conclusion that history has proven that good understanding is possible and in present times, as technology brings people closer together than ever before, "the challenge [...] is rather to accept to live together." President Wade emphasised that "accepting to live together first of all means celebrating our shared values and respecting our differences". He then stressed that extremism is obscurantism and that it is, thus, the duty of each and every one of us to work henceforth to "overcome fear and ignorance"; it is the duty of each individual but it is a duty that is even greater among religious leaders who, by their functions also have a capacity for peace: "You, Imams and Rabbis, as men of faith and of the Word, with spiritual elevation that puts you above the demands of time, you have the gift and the sacred mission to rekindle and maintain the flame of peace in the hearts of men. Where politicians come to a halt, you can open closed doors, alleviate resentment, remove the suspicion that generates distrust and fear, and thus you can plot the path of dialogue and cordial understanding. Against those who incite war and violence, ostensibly in the name of God, you again have the authority to say: no, God loves peace, and God's side is the side of peace, not war!" Further enriching the presentation of his thoughts by giving a few examples from among the many concrete actions that comprise his strongly peace-bent policy, the President ended his address with a heartening appeal that summarised all the hopes founded on this world congress of Imams and Rabbis for peace: "Honourables Imams and Rabbis, may the faith within you light up the heart of all believers and all men and women of good will. And may your prayers be with us, not only for the reconciliation of Israelis and Palestinians but also amongst all peoples in conflict so that peace may triumph in the world." "During the opening session of the Congress, Pres. Wade also agreed to be President of the Committee of Honour of Hommes de Parole Foundation." 3

5 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians UNESCO Letters of patronage (excerpts): I confirm the patronage of UNESCO for this important event, which is fully consistent with UNESCO's objectives concerning interreligious and intercultural dialogue. KOÏCHIRO MATSUURA Director General of UNESCO We are pleased to give our support to the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace, on the theme The Sacredness of Peace. In times such as this when conflicts are often aggravated by religious fundamentalism, it seems indispensable for religious leaders, be they Jewish or Moslem, together with Christians, to express a common vision of peace. ELIAS SANBAR Ambassador to the Permanent Observer Mission of Palestine to UNESCO We feel that this event on peace among the great religions is of unquestionable importance. It is with greatest pleasure that the Permanent Delegation of Israel to UNESCO gives its support to the process launched by the Hommes de Parole Foundation. DAVID KORNBLUTH Ambassador, Permanent Delegate of Israel to UNESCO The French National Commission shall of course support this process which we feel, as part of UNESCO's mission, will promote intercultural dialogue and contribute to peace as a culture. JEAN-PIERRE BOYER Secretary General of the French National Commission to UNESCO Our Commission is in favour of your request to include UNESCO in this action in support of reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians and, more broadly, inter-cultural dialogue and peace. NICOLAS MATHIEU Deputy Secretary General of the Swiss Commission to UNESCO 4

6 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Objectives : On 21 September 2007, the representatives of the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace launched a campaign called 2008, Year of Peace Initiatives for Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians. Further to their commitments in Brussels and Seville, the representatives of 400 religious leaders and members from 43 countries who participated in the Congresses will be meeting to launch new actions, based on dialogue and brotherhood to support current peace efforts. Calendar: The Sacredness of Peace - Congress of Paris : 15, 16 and 17 December Under the High Patronage of UNESCO The meeting will bring together 85 participants: 25 Palestinian Imams, Israeli Rabbis and Christians from Holy Land surrounded by other religious leaders and experts from 21 countries. Its aim will be to voice the common view of Islam and Judaism and their proposals for peace. It will also create a joint monitoring group to support, develop and propagate initiatives that encourage peaceful coexistence and dialogue. Representatives of the national and international media will attend the opening ceremony and will participate in the press conference following the closing ceremony. They will play a key role in convincing the international community to actively and tangibly support the Congress goals. To encourage uninhibited discussion, the work sessions will not be public. Religious dignitaries of Islam and Judaism will be sharing their opinions openly and will be working together on promoting peace and reconciliation within and between their communities. 15 March 2009: 1st working session of the joint monitoring group. Post-Congress assessment and proposals. 5

7 Programme The Sacredness of Peace Production/media : 6

8 Monday 15 December UNESCO, Room IV 15: Opening Ceremony Alain Michel, Founder and Director General of Hommes de Parole Foundation and co-founder of the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Koïchiro Matsuura, Director-General of UNESCO His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder the International Association for Human Values, Founder International Art of Living Foundation, India H.E Maitre Abdoulaye Wade, President of the Republic of Senegal and President of the 11th Session of the Islamic Summit Conference H.E. David Kornbluth, Ambassador of Israel to UNESCO M. Salah Zoheika, deputy minister of interreligious affairs (Ministry of Waqf, PA) Abraham Yossef, Chief Rabbi of Holon, Israel Message from Prince El Hassan Bin Talal of Jordan René-Samuel Sirat, Chief Rabbi, Unesco Chairholder (Network of mutual knowledge of the religions of the Book) co-founder of the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Imam Abduljalil Sajid, Chairman Muslim Council for Religious and Racial Harmony, United Kingdom European Representative of World Council of Muslims Inter-faith Relations (WCMIR) !: Break & informal discussions : Introduction to workshops, moderators, Congress objectives and expectations !: Report Sheikh Abdallah Darwish of Kfar Qasem (Co-Presidents of the Israeli-Palestinian Mosaïca Association) Chief Rabbi David Rosen and M. Salah Zoheika, (Members of the Council for Religious Institutions in the Holy Land) : Cocktails, dinner, Arabo-andalus music (upon invitation) 7

9 Tuesday 16 December Pullman Rive Gauche : Work Groups Responsibility and commitment of religious leaders to peace - Concrete actions Mr Doudou Diène - Leonid Kishkovsky The coexistence of Judaism, Christianity and Islam in the Holy Land. The position and expectations of the three monotheists in relation to each other Mr Patrice Brodeur - Imam Yahya Hendi The position of religious leaders on the place and role of women in future Judeo-Christian-Muslim relations Imam Abduljalil Sajid - Rabbi Claude Sultan : Break & informal discussions : Work Groups Religious education as a tool for promoting the oneness of the human being, and for discovering and respecting the other by benefiting from his/her diversity. Peace education through common rites and teachings of religions Dr Ghassan Manasra - Rabbi Ari Smadja Introspection in Judaism and Islam to change oneself and down the walls of misunderstanding. Sharing this introspection Rabbi Marc Raphael Guedj - Imam Yahya Pallavicini 13:00 Lunch & informal discussions : Collective manifestation : Jewish - Christian - Muslim at the Wall for Peace located on «!le Champ de Mars!», Paris. Presentation of Inter-religious projects and creating of partnership. With Rosa Guerreiro, Programme Specialist - Projects related to intercultural dialogue, in particular interreligious dialogue - Pluralism and Intercultural Dialogue Section, UNESCO (Paris, France) Doudou Diène, United Nations Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism ( ), Vice-President of the Niwano Peace Prize Committee (France) Chris Sacarabany, Director of the Intercultural and Interreligious Section, Hommes de Parole Foundation : Sharing of concretes actions : Plenary Session Summary of work : Dinner, evening event - testimonies, informal meetings & concert of arabo-andalus music Preparation of the final declaration and of the action plan 8

10 Wednesday 17 December UNESCO, Salle IV : Planning Committee meeting Which will ensure the follow up on actions decided during the workshops : Plenary session, following synthesis of work, debates about the final declaration and action plan Doudou Diène, Rosa Guerreiro, Rabbi Ari Smadja, Sheikh Raed Bder, Imam Yahya Pallavicini, Rabbi Elie Abadie, Imam Abduljalil Sajid, Rabbi Tsion Cohen, Imam Yahya Hendi : Break : Closing session, Conclusions, Presentation of the intended Action plan and Final Declaration in the presence of the Media. Alain Michel (Director general of the Hommes de Parole Foundation) Ali El Samman (President of the Committee for Dialogue in the High Islamic Council), His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (Founder the International Association for Human Values, Founder International Art of Living Foundation, India), Katerina Stenou (Director, Division of Cultural Policies and Intercultural Dialogue, UNESCO) : Final Lunch 15:00 : To conclude the congress, the Imams and Rabbis visit the Great Mosque of Paris and the Great Synagogue de la Victoire, giving the first image of unity and peace following the Congress. 9

11 Manifestation in front of the Wall for Peace, Champ de Mars, 16 december 2008 Jérôme Paillon Collective manifestation in front of the Wall for Peace Imams and Rabbis, with Mgr Mouallem, Father Samir Khalil Samir, His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and Alain Michel. Handshake Marc Puissant (From left to right) Imam Ilyasi, Rabbi Rozwaski, Eliyahu Mclean, Ayatollah Abtahi, Alain Michel, Ayatollah Iravani, Father Samir, Marek Halter, Salah Zoheika and Rabbi Garzon Serfaty. Jérôme Paillon The embrace (center) Oded Wiener, Cabinate Director of the Chief Rabbinate (Israel) and Salah Zoheika, Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs (Palestinian Authority). Chief Rabbi David Rosen (back) arms reaching to the sky. Dialogue is possible, Peace too Marc Puissant 10

12 Jérôme Paillon for Hommes de Parole 11

13 Declaration and action plan Religious dignitaries, Imams and Rabbis, together with Christians and other religious experts from around the world met at the Third World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace to determine ways to defend the sacred character of peace, together, and to commit themselves, as of now, to implementing all possible measures, within a religious context, to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Congress was held in Paris from 15 to 17 December 2008, under the patronage of UNESCO and with the support of His Excellency Maitre Abdoulaye Wade, President of Senegal and Chairman of the 11th Session of the Islamic Summit Conference. First and foremost, the Imams and Rabbis, joined by the Christians, hereby reiterate their commitment to denouncing and condemning henceforth, ceaselessly and publicly, all forms of violence, terror, and individual and collective injustice committed in the name of God and/or their respective religions or Holy Scriptures. They also reiterate their determination to be active custodians of the Sacredness of Peace. The Third World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace has decided: 1. to expand the dialogue to include Christians. 2. to include women and young people in their discussions and decision-making. Following extensive discussion, a road map was established setting out tangible commitments by the religious leaders for peace. The moderators pledged to go deeper into the themes considered in their respective workshops. They will compile and summarise all relevant suggestions and proposals for actions transmitted by the Congress members. The Congress decided to set up a permanent multi-religious group comprised provisionally of 18 members, to: 1. compile initiatives and proposals for peace submitted by religious leaders for onward distribution and adoption; 2. organise and guarantee the systematic involvement of women and young people in designing and implementing educational programmes on peace; 3. support, coordinate and expand forthcoming meetings and activities organised by the Hommes de Parole Foundation in the framework of the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace; 4. expand the network of partners and participants on the basis of the UNESCO interreligious programme and the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace joined by christians; 5. adopt a common stand in the event of crises or conflicts stemming from the ethical and peace values of the three monotheisms (Defense of the sacredness of peace and life); 6. draft a charter of ethics on religions that will be a veritable manual on "living together" to be disseminated using all modern means of transmission and will highlight the golden rules and common values of religions; 7. to form, without delay, a representative committee of Imams, Rabbis and Christians who will speak to the political authorities on behalf of all of the members of the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace, as well as everyone else who chooses to join this movement. This committee will present the collective demands of the Congress directly to politicians. These demands are meant to facilitate a resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This work group will begin its activities today. Its first update meeting will be held on 15 March 2009 in Jerusalem. Third World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Paris, UNESCO, Wednesday 17 December

14 Composition of the Work Group Moderators Sheikh Khaled Bentounes Spiritual Leader of the Tariqa Alawiya (France) Mr Patrice Brodeur Titular of a Canada Research Chair: Islam, Pluralism and Globalization (Canada) Mr Doudou Diene United Nations Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism ( ), Vice-President of the Niwano Peace Prize Committee (France) Chief Rabbi Marc Raphael Guedj Former Chief Rabbi of Geneva Traditional Jewish Congregation and Director of the Inter-Religious Roots and Sources Foundation (Switzerland) Imam Yahya Hendi Secretary General of Clergy Beyond Borders, President of Imams for Universe, Dignity, Human Rights and Dialogue, Muslim Chaplain and professor at Georgetown University (United States) Mr Leonid Kishkovsky Moderator of the World Conference of Religions for Peace (WCRP) and International Director of External Affairs and Interchurch Relations in the Orthodox Church in America (United States) Dr Ghassan Manasra Director of the Center for Islamic Culture (Nazareth) Imam Yahya Pallavicini Vice-President of the Islamic Religious Community CO.RE.IS, (Italy) Imam Abduljalil Sajid Chairman of the Muslim Council for Religious and Racial Harmony UK (MCRRH); European Representative of World Council of Muslims Inter-faith Relations (WCMIR); (United Kingdom) Chief Rabbi René-Samuel Sirat Former Chief Rabbi of France, UNESCO Chair for "Network of mutual knowledge of religions of the Book, the spiritual traditions and the specific cultures", (France) Rabbi Ari Smadja Rabbi of Ramat Shlomo (Israel) Rabbi Claude Sultan Director of the Rabbinic Institute Rachi of Troyes, and professor in the French Rabbinic seminary (France) Personalities joining the work group Rabbi Elie Abadie Rabbi of the Edmond J. Safra Synagogue (United States) Cheikh Raed Bder Director of the Adam Center for Interreligious Dialogue in Qfar Qasem Rabbi Tsion Cohen Rabbi of Shaar-Hanegav (Israel) Ms Rosa Guerreiro Programme Specialist - Projects related to intercultural dialogue, in particular interreligious dialogue - Pluralism and Intercultural Dialogue Section, UNESCO (Paris, France) Mr Alain Michel Director general of Hommes de Parole Foundation (Switzerland/France) Kadi Ahmad Natour President of the High Muslim Court of Appeal (Israel) Themes of the workshops Responsibility and commitment of religious leaders to peace - Concrete actions The coexistence of Judaism, Christianity and Islam in the Holy Land. The position and expectations of the three monotheists in relation to each other The position of religious leaders on the place and role of women in future Judeo-Christian-Muslim relations Religious education as a tool for promoting the oneness of the human being, and for discovering and respecting the other by benefiting from his/her diversity. Peace education through common rites and teachings of religions Introspection in Judaism and Islam to change oneself and down the walls of misunderstanding. Sharing this introspection Prayer as a peace instrument 13

15 Opening Speeches (excerpts) You cannot imagine how many times we were put to the test, in every possible sense; humanly, financially, with our families: how many times we were, and will be, forced to overcome the odds. What kept us going was the knowledge of the success of the first two congresses and, with this, having absolute conviction, that with the help of God, you can change the world. YOU are men of God and because of this you are closely connected to Him. With yourself as a model and using references from holy texts, you have a decisive influence over man. You are the vehicles of His Peace, and this is why, my dear friends, that I am convinced that peace is not for tomorrow, but for today. I no longer dream of peace, but already see it in your hands. Jérôme Paillon Alain Michel, Director General, Hommes de Parole Foundation Our organization cannot act as a substitute for Cultural or religious actors, but we can accompany them in their journey of tolerance and solidarity. Such a goal, notably in the Near East, requires a learning process and a constant will to listen to the other. In the same sense, it is also important to recognize the silences and the dead ends. I know that you are ready for this kind of open, pluralistic dialogue. This is why the chosen theme for the congress «!the sacredness of peace!» is particularly stimulating. For the three religions of the book, as well as other spiritual traditions, Peace is, in fact, a sacred accomplishment that echoes a profound demand of dignity and fraternity. Know that this demand is ours as well. I, therefore, want to welcome you, again and wish that your work be fruitful. Jérôme Paillon Koïchiro Matsuura, Director General of UNESCO EPA Honorable Imams, Honorable Rabbis, The existence of two States, Israeli and Palestinian, living together in Peace, each within their respective borders, safe and internationally recognized, is a dream whose realization is within our reach. Devoting the theme of your third Congress to the «!Sacredness of Peace!» is a just reminder of the virtuousness of peace, due to the fact that it is one of God s commandments and is in essence a part of the divine order. Peace, which signifies more than the absence of war, is an essential dimension of the monotheism in which we believe. Peace is inseparable from the sacred word of God, revealed by His envoys and recorded in the sacred texts. The Torah, the Bible, and the Koran, with remarkable historical continuity, prescribe for good, forbid evil, encourage spiritual elevation, preach charity, call for forgiveness, command the respect of diversity and laud affection towards neighbors. Address of his Excellence, Maitre Abdoulaye Wade, President of the Republic of Senegal 14

16 Acknowledgement My truest thanks to everyone who, from near or far, contributed to the success of this magnificent Congress which we know will reap great fruits for the cause of peace. There are so many of you that we have not been able to list all our friends and partners from the first two congresses, but they are always with us. Without them the third congress could not have been held. If we have forgotten you, please accept our apologies. We did not do it on purpose. President Mahmoud Abbas Azzedine Addach Georgina Alioth Ghislain d Auvigny Marcio Barbosa Ethel Bardavit André Bespalov Alice Bodourian Marc Bonnant Mr Boyer Patricia Brimbeuf Mgr Brizard Sheikh Bukhari Mr Canet Hubert de Canson Rénuka Hinduja Cavadini Morgan Chevat Alain Chevillat Khaled Chibane Stéphane Chmelewsky Denis Clavel Sheikh Abdallah Darwish Laurent de Cherisey Philippe Demaison Doudou Diène Mohamed Saleh El Din Lionel Di Rico Xavier Droin Damien Dupont Lea Passi-Even Imad Al Falouji Stéphane Fouks Patrick Fournier Vittoria Fresco Tilly Gaillard Georges Galibourg Therese Gheziel Loken Christian Gomis Katerina Goubanova Bruno Graves Rosa Guerreiro Marek Halter Vincent Hanssens Gita Hazani Yves d Hérouville H.E Nassif Hitti Luc Hoffmann Carole Holmey Rafic Husseini Shamil Idriss Pierre Jaubert Laurent Jobert Vincent Joly Laurent Jouffray Patricia Kahane Issa Kassissieh Galitt Kenan John Kinsella H.E David Kornbluth Daniel Kropf Alex Lati Yaël Levy Nicole Lorin Hocine Loukkaf Albert Mallet Ezra Marcos Camille Martin H.E. Koïchiro Matsuura Michael Melchior Marie-Ange, Elisabeth Michel Jacques Michel Ed Miller Ali Moussa Cheikh Khalifa Niasse Carole Perez Alain Perry Bruno Petta Michal Philosophe Sheela Pimparé Marie-Françoise Pissard-Grantet Armelle et Jean-Pierre Place Christine et François Place Marc Puissant Jean-Claude Rémond Alain Rémy Françoise Rivière David et Sharon Rosen René Roudaut Joël et Audrey Sacarabany Dr Ali El Samman H.E Elias Sanbar Marianne Sébastien Dr Djelloul Seddiki Michel Serfaty Marcel Serrero Antoine Sfeir Daniel Shek René-Samuel Sirat H.E. Bjorn Skogmo Sister Isabelle Sister Véronica Katerina Stenou Raymond Swiergiel Françoise Sylvestre Judith Symonds Ahmed Al Tamimi Taysir Al Tamimi Winston Tangoa Jean-Max Tassel Michel Taube Thich Nhat Hanh Phung Tran Alioune Traoré Knut Vollebaek HEM Abdoulaye Wade Oded Wiener Mr et Mme Wilmet H.E Ali Yahya Mohamed Ziadah Salah Zoheika Palestinian Authority, French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Advisor for Religious Affairs, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the French Consulate in Jerusalem,, the Norwegian Embassy in Paris, the Community of Sisters of Bethlehem, the Carmel for Peace, the!sant'egidio!community, UNESCO, Euro RSCG C&O, Euro RSCG Worldwide Events - Hommes de Parole Foundation!: the Board, the volunteers and the team 15

17 Participants The Sacredness of Peace Production/media : 16

18 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Jewish religious leaders BELGIUM Albert Guigui Chief Rabbi of Brussels FRANCE David Messas Chief Rabbi of Paris Michel Serfaty Rabbi of Ris Orangis - Delegate of the French Consistoire for Inter-religious Affairs René-Samuel Sirat Former Chief Rabbi of France Unesco Chairholder (Network of mutual knowledge of the religions of the Book, the spiritual traditions and the specific cultures) Claude Sultan Director of the rabbinic Institute Rachi of Troyes, France, and professor in the French Rabbinic seminar GERMANY Chaim Zwi Rozwaski Rabbi of the Jewish Community of Berlin HOLLAND Sjalom Awraham Soetendorp President of the World Union for Progressive Judaïsm in the European Union ISRAEL Yaacov Ariel David Brodman Chief Rabbi of Savyon Tsion Cohen Rabbi of Shaar-Hanegav Menahem Froman Rabbi of Tekoa Josef Gliksberg Chief Rabbi of Givataym Salomo Pappenheim Rabbi - Edaah Har Edit David Rosen Former Chief Rabbi of Ireland - President of IJCIC (International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultation) Abraham Sherman Rabbi Member of the High Court of Jerusalem Ari Smadja Chief Rabbi of Ramat Shlomo Oded Wiener Director General, Chief Rabbinate of Israel Avraham Yossef Rabbi of Holon Chief Rabbi of Ramat Gan 17

19 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Jewish religious leaders ITALY Yossef Levi Chief Rabbi of Florence RUSSIA Berel Lazar Chief Rabbi of Russia SPAIN Benito Garzon Serfaty Former Chief Rabbi of Spain SWITZERLAND Marc-Raphael Guedj Former Chief Rabbi of Geneva and President of the Inter-religious Foundation of Roots and Sources UNITED STATES Elie Abadie Rabbi of the «!Edmond Safra Synagogue!», New York Richard Marker Rabbi of New York Vice-President of l IJCIC (International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultation) 18

20 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Muslim religious leaders FRANCE Cheikh Khaled Bentounès Spiritual Leader of the Tariqa Alawiya Hassan Chalghoulmi Imam of Drancy Djelloul Seddiki Director of the Alghazali Institute at the Grand Mosque of Paris INDIA Umer Ahmad Ilyasi Secretary general of All India Imam Organisation IRAN Hojat-Al-Islam Seyed Mohammed Ali Abtahi President, Institute of Inter Religious Dialogue Ayatollah Ahmad Iravani Director of Islamic Studies, Catholic University, Washington, DC ISRAEL PALESTINE (T) Khalil Albaz Imam of Tel Sheva Abdul Kareem Al Zorba Imam of the Dome of the Rock Raed Bder Director of the Adam Center of Qfar Qasem Abdallah Darwish Founder of the Islamic Movement in Israel Abd Elsalam Manasra Vice president of the association of Soufis in the Holy Land. Head of the Dariya Soufi Order Hassan Mareh Imam of Faradis Ahmad Natour President of the High Muslim Court of Appeal in Israel Salah Zoheika Deputy Minister - Ministry of Waqf (religious Affairs, PA) ITALY Abd Al-wadoud Gouraud Imam of the Al-Wahid Mosque of Milan Abd al-wahid Felice Pallavicini President of the Islamic Religious Community of Italy (COREIS) Yahya Sergio Pallavicini Vice President of Coreis (Islamic Religious Community of Italy) SAUDI ARABIA Abdullah Omar Nasseef President of the World Muslim Congress SENEGAL Ahmed Khalifa Niasse Deputy and Mayor of Kaolack UNITED KINGDOM Abduljalil Sajid Imam of Brighton. Chairman of the Muslim Council for Religious and Racial Harmony UNITED STATES Yahya Hendi Chaplain at Georgetown University 19

21 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Personalities & Experts BELGIUM Vincent Hanssens Coordinator of Interreligious Network of the International Federation Catholics Universities Katrien Hertog Desk officer Middle East, Pax Christi International CANADA Patrice Brodeur Titular of a Canada Research Chair: Islam, Pluralism and globalization EGYPT Ali El Samman President of the Committee for Dialogue in the High Islamic Council FRANCE Norma Anav Representative of The International Council of Jewish Women Youssef Baouendi French Representative of the World Islamic League Isabelle de Castelbajac Docteur en histoire des religions et anthropologie religieuse Youssef Dib Personal Wealth Management Global Coordinator Doudou Diene United Nations Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism ( ), Vice-President of the Niwano Peace Prize Committee Philippe Gaudrat Professor at the University of law and social sciences of Poitiers. Head of the International Foundation of the Art of Living for Lebanon Omer Faruk Harman Councelor for Social Affairs for the Turkish Embassy in France and Consultant of the Religious Affairs Marc Puissant Facilitator Anne Marie Revcolevschi Director General of Fondation Memoire pour la Shoah (Foundation for the Memory of the Shoah) Michel Sternberg Member of Steering Committee of the Judeo-Christian Friendship of France and the Brotherhood of Abraham ISRAEL Michael Kagan Co Director of the Jewish climate Initiative Alexandre Lati Movie Director Ghassan Manasra Director of the The Center for Islamic Culture Nazareth Eliyahu Mclean Director Jerusalem Peacemakers Boutros Mouallem Archbishop of Galillea 20

22 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Personalities & Experts INDIA His Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Founder of the International Association for Human Values, Founder of the International Art of Living Foundation LEBANON Father Samir Khalil Samir Professor of Arab Thoughts and islamic studies at Saint Joseph University - Beirut NORWAY Canon Trond Bakkevig Pastor of the Lutheran Church of Norway ROUMANIE Matthieu Gosse Member of Saint John Congregation in Bucharest UNITED KINGDOM Rev. Canon Alistair Macdonald-Radcliff Senior Advisor, C-100 Initiative Sayed Nadeem Kazmi Founder and director, The Britslam Partnership and Editor of Shia Affairs journal Director of international affairs Abraham Radkin Director of the Foundation for Human Rights UNITED STATES Marshall J.Breger Law Professor at Catholic University, Washington DC Foundation Agha Jafri Shia Muslim Community Leader Leonid Kishkovsky Moderator Religious for Peace Boris Pincus President of the American Association of Central Asian and Caucasian Countries. President of Religions in Dialogue (RID) 21

23 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Congress Advisory Committee Ahmed Abaddi General Secretary of the Mohammedi League of Moroccan Ulema Imad Al Falouji Director of the Adam Center in Gaza Abdallah Darwish Founder of the Islamic movement in Israel Michael Melchior Former Chief Rabbi of Norway, Member of Knesset David Rosen Former Chief Rabbi of Ireland President of IJCIC (International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultation) Abduljalil Sajid Imam of Brighton Chairman of the Muslim Council for Religious and Racial Harmony René Samuel Sirat Former Chief Rabbi of France Unesco Chairholder / Network of mutual knowledge of the religions of the Book, the spiritual traditions and the specific cultures. Oded Wiener General Director of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel Salah Zoheika Deputy Minister - Ministry of Waqf 22

24 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Operations team HOMMES DE PAROLE Direction Alain Michel Director general Chris Sacarabany Director of Intercultural and Interreligious Section Jérôme Paillon Head of audio-visual Development of Partnership Judith Symonds Logistic Nathalie Beaufils Mathieu Pissard Translation Tilly Gaillard Web Team Atelier jnet Marie Wilmet Delphine Gautier Invitations Mostafa Aghrib Marianne Stone Invitations (next) Golchehr Damghani Jessica Ferrigno Reception desk Rami Abdulhadi Diane Angelie Alan Caillaud Gloria Keredine Defdaf Marianne Spreng Christoph Spreng Johannes Wanka Press - Medias : EURO-RSCG C&O Press Contact Agathe Coustaux Agathe.coustaux@eurorscg.fr Alexandra Wagner Alexandra.wagner@eurorscg.fr Xavier Roc Xavier.roc@eurorscg.fr Marine Mornet Marine.mornet@eurorscg.fr UNESCO Rosa Guerreiro Programme Specialist Interreligious dialogue r.guerreiro@unesco.org Sheela Pimpare s.pimpare@unesco.org Vittoria Fresco v.fresco@unesco.org Logistic, Production : EURO-RSCG WorldWide Events Gérard Askinazi Marijo Sallon Marijo.sallon@eurorscg.fr Charles Ifrah Charles.ifrah@eurorscg.fr Thomas Regan Lefebvre Thomas.lefebvre@eurorscg.fr Guillaume Jandot Guillaume.jandot@eurorscg.fr Gilles Labouh Gilles.labouh@eurorscg.fr Pierre Catalan Pierre.catalan@eurorscg.fr Cecile Cohic Cecile.cohic@eurorscg.fr Marina Bellardinelli Mbellardinelli@hommesdeparole.org 23

25 Jérôme Paillon for Hommes de Parole Marc Puissant 24

26 APPENDIX Hommes de Parole Foundation Introduction 27 Excerpt of the Charter 28 Previous Congresses First World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace 29 Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace 30 Partners of the previous congresses 31 Messages of support Press Review (samples)

27 Jérôme Paillon, Johannes Wanka, Xavier Zimbardo pour Hommes de Parole 26

28 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Information and Dialogue for peace purpose Hommes de Parole Foundation Through its publications and conferences, Hommes de Parole Foundation creates spaces of free speech, dialogue and mutual recognition. A tool for peace-building dialogue As a neutral platform for dialogue, the Foundation brings a large gamut of international actors together and provides them with the opportunity to express and commit themselves. Listening to all positions helps to produce common solutions that go beyond individual strategies and helps meet the needs of the entire group of participants. The Foundation shapes its actions bearing in mind that public opinion is the first world power, that peace cannot exist without the will and active support of the people. The Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace (19 to 22 March 2006, Seville) 220 Imams and Rabbis from 43 countries, accompanied by 80 leaders and experts from around the world, under the high patronage of King Juan Carlos I of Spain and King Mohammed VI of Morocco. The First World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace (3 to 6 January 2005, Brussels) Judaism and Islam: A dialogue formally renewed. 110 Imams and Rabbis from 25 countries, accompanied by 70 leaders and experts from around the world, under the high patronage of King Albert II of Belgium and King Mohammed VI of Morocco. The Israeli-Palestinian meeting held in Caux from 23 to 26 June In a unique place and without media coverage, this congress brought together more than 40 men and women from the world of politics, religion, science, academia and the social sciences. Powerful leaders showed their desire to contribute to the construction of An Alliance for a Culture of Peace in the Middle East. The organization of the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace is one of the results of this meeting. Information Hommes de Parole s publications aim to inform the public at large about the positions of the world s actors toward the major issues of our global society. These positions are broadcast free of any comment, censorship or judgement so that they can express and enrich approaches and visions in all their diversity. 27

29 The World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace declared: 2008, Year of Reconciliation between Israelis and Palestinians Excerpt of Hommes de Parole Charter The Hommes de Parole charter sets out the values endorsed by the foundation PREAMBLE Hommes de Parole is a non-profit making Swiss foundation, based in Geneva. It was founded in 2001 by Alain Michel who therebefore devoted 15 years to humanitarian actions in 25 countries. It considers spirituality as the essence of life. The foundation is independent, and has no religious, political, philosophical, ideological or economical affiliation. Its objective is to act on the causes of conflicts and the principal problems of our times relative to the future of the planet and peace in the world. In order to accomplish this objective, it organises events, meetings, etc. and develops the information and news that people need in order to be able to contribute to preparing the future of Humanity. It pursues its goals using all possible means of communication and all channels of distribution. Thanks to its active neutrality, it is a permanent platform, acceptable to all for dialogue and contacts. It is A Bridge between Human Beings and a bridge between the different religious, political, economic authorities and civil societies. THE HOMMES DE PAROLE CODE OF ETHICS: Hommes de Parole has adopted a Code of Ethics based on the following quotation from Thomas More: The words I utter are my being, that I hold in my hands. Believing in human being also means believing in his word. Establishing and fostering dialogue regardless of circumstances, requires a deeper knowledge of what the human being is beyond his differences, and better respect for the human being in his search for justice and peace. In all its actions, Hommes de Parole is meant to be an instrument and a platform of dialogue where everyone can meet, exchange information, even under extreme conditions. This implies a genuine and professional commitment, fully respectful of the individual and peoples in all their diversity, regardless of the surrounding conditions. Being in unity with someone's word means imparting onto it a creative power of an extraordinary force. It is a commitment to an exemplary way that contributes to the transformation of the world. The men and women who have been at one with their words have profoundly marked history. Free speech means also renewing dialogue. We cannot exist without the other, and the constant rediscovering of this total interconnexion obliges us to confront our differences and our disagreements, to go beyond our individual interests and together build models based on cooperation amongst all and respect for the development of each and every one of us. Sharing one's word means sharing experiences, means opening one's mind to the complexity and humanity of situations, free from judgment, prejudices and stereotypes. This is an opportunity for the public at large to understand conflicts more deeply and personally, to grasp global issues and the reality of situations in the field. It promotes listening to all the viewpoints and constructing one's own vision. THE THREE PILLARS OF HOMMES DE PAROLE:. A life is unique, irreplaceable and has no price.. What we do for others, but without them is done against them.. The goal (as an end) does not justify the means, the goal is already part of the means. COMMITMENTS Hommes de Parole has chosen to be independent and will maintain its private voluntary commitment under all circumstances:. through its financial independence. through its political independenceya. through its independence from any ideology, thanks to its non-denominational character. 28

30 First World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Brussels, 3 to 5 January 2005 From 3 to 6 January, 2005, 110 Imams and Rabbis from 25 countries, accompanied by 70 leaders and experts from around the world, under the High Patronage of King Albert II of Belgium and King Mohammed VI of Morocco, to act together and state to the world, that peace and reconciliation are at the very heart of their religions. J. Paillon Originally to be held in Morocco, but finally relocated to Brussels due to the international situation, the First World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace sought to :. Condemn all forms of violence perpetrated in the name of God or some religious principle.. Create a dialogue and a far-reaching, durable partnership between Islam and Judaism.. Allow the religious leaders to contribute to identifying peaceful solutions to conflicts which can be influenced by the two religions and foster the development of concrete actions in the field.. Bring the leaders of the two religions before the media of the whole world and allow them to express a position of peace and unity. J. Paillon Final Statement We, leaders, representatives, Rabbis and Imams of Muslim and Jewish religious communities who have assembled from all over the world for the first world congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace affirm our commitment to strive to end all bloodshed and attacks against innocent human beings that offend the right to life and dignity given by the Almighty to all human beings. We call upon all people to combat hate, ignorance and their causes and to build together a world of peace, rich in diversity, in which all faiths and their practices are respected and protected. We call upon the political leaders of all peoples to work for righteous and peaceful durable solutions around the world and in particular in the Holy Land for the benefit of all peoples and faith-communities who live in the land and hold it dear. We pledge ourselves to pursue a shared goal of respect for human rights for all people and peoples, without which no peace can be possible. We call upon all religious leaders in Jewish and Muslim congregations around the world to devote regular sermons and addresses to their communities on the importance of inter-religious respect and reverence for all human life under all circumstances. We announce the establishment of a advisory joint committee to help implement these commitments and propose programmatic initiatives on a regular basis, in keeping with the proposals presented during the congress and in its spirit for the wellbeing of all peoples. Egmont Palace - January 6,

31 Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Seville, 19 to 22 March 2006 Under the High Patronage of His Majesty Juan Carlos I, King of Spain and His Majesty Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, Commander of Faithful,220 Imams and Rabbis from 43 countries, together with 80 key personalities and experts from all over the world, gathered in Seville, from 19 to 22 March 2006, for the Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace. J. Paillon Giving priority to the promotion and implementation of education and knowledge - including the teaching of peace - was the principal theme of reflection and action during this second meeting. This Congress brought together more than two hundred eminent personalities from the Islamic and Jewish communities, with contributions from Christians and representatives of other religions, academics, educationalists, students from Rabbinic and Koranic schools. J. Paillon J. Paillon Final Statement In the name of the One Creator and Master of the Universe, the Compassionate and All Merciful, we Muslim and Jewish leaders and representatives, gathered for the Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace organized by Hommes de Parole in Seville, in the region of Andalusia - recalling the past era in which Jews and Muslims lived together here in harmony and mutual enrichment - and aspiring for such relations today and in the future. We accordingly affirm that contrary to widespread misrepresentation, there is no inherent conflict between Islam and Judaism, on the contrary. While modern politics has regrettably impacted negatively upon the relationship, our two religions share the most fundamental values of faith in the One Almighty whose name is Peace, who is merciful, compassionate and just; and who calls on us human beings to manifest these values in our lives and to advance them in relation to all persons whose lives and dignity are sacred. Therefore we reiterate the message we sent from our first congress, that we deplore bloodshed or violence in the name of any ideology everywhere. Especially when such is perpetrated in the name of religion it is a desecration of religion, itself and the gravest offense against the Holy Name of the Creator. Thus, in addition to calling upon all our co-religionists to respect all human life, dignity and rights, to promote peace and justice; we call upon them and the governments of the world and international institutions to show respect for the attachments and symbols of all religions, as well as their holy sites, houses of worship and cemeteries, particularly in the Holy Land, due to its special sensitivity. Accordingly, we condemn any negative representation of these, let alone any desecration, Heaven forbid. Similarly, we condemn any incitement against a faith or people, let alone any call for their elimination, and we urge authorities to do likewise. We recognize that there is widespread misrepresentation of our religions, - one in the other's community as well as in the world at large. We affirm therefore the urgent need for truthful and respectful education about each other's faith and tradition in our respective communities and schools; and call upon those responsible to promote such essential education for peaceful co-existence. Solemnly we pledge ourselves to the abovementioned continue to seek out one another to build bridges of respect, hope and friendship, to combat incitement and hostility, to overcome all barriers and obstacles, to reinforce mutual trust, serving the noble goal of universal peace especially in the land that is holy to us all. Seville, Spain, March, 22nd 2006, Safar 21, 1427, Adar 22,

32 They supported the First and the Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace : Kingdom of Belgium Kingdom of Morocco Kingdom of Spain European Union Qatar Kingdom Holding Company Saudi Arabia Alliance of Civilizations ISESCO Kahane Foundation Evens Foundation 31

33 Message of support to the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace This is a critical step in our continuing dialogue-working together across geographical, political, cultural, linguistic and religious boundaries. In religious thinking, in politician life, and even in economic circles, the call is for increased tolerance and more peaceful coexistence-based on an ideal of shared interests. We can make a better world if we are committed to the principles of altruism, of wisdom, and compassion and fairness. HRH PRINCE EL HASSAN BIN TALAL Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Moderator, World Conference of Religions for Peace I would like to renew all my support for the successful approach you are taking, reuniting around the voice of God at the service of peace, Imams and Rabbis that have chosen to hold a dialogue. You can rely on our determination, and the willingness of the Kingdom of Morocco, which has never neglected its efforts to give peace and dialogue a chance between cultures and religions of the Book. ANDRE AZOULAY Advisor to King Mohammed VI I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere support for the initiative taken by the Hommes de Parole foundation. At a time when it appears that there are more efforts to divide us along many lines, particularly religion, bringing together imams and rabbis to affirm their unity of faith and commitments to peace is a visionary and worthwhile goal. KOFI ANNAN Former General Secretary of United Nations I assure you my entire support for this undertaking in which you have engaged yourself, aiming at that each religion be a vector of peace in these lands of the Mediterranean. ROMANO PRODI Former President of the European Commission I found the idea of tackling the religious aspects of the dialogue between Jews and Muslims particularly challenging. I share your hope that if Judaism and Islam are examined without prejudice, the notion of peace and the rejection of violence will emerge as common and fundamental principles. Spiritual leaders, if they are true to their calling, must play a central role in enhancing the sanctity of human life, regardless of race, religion, nationality or gender. It is important that their voice be heard in the name of peace and moderation and not, as is unfortunately all too often the case, in the name of fanaticism, rejection and hatred. SHIMON PERES Nobel Prize of Peace, President of the State of Israel 32

34 Message of support to the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Time passes quickly and already a couple of weeks have passed since my return from Seville after the Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace. I always had present in mind sending you a word of thanks for the wonderful experience of the Congress. The fact of meeting so many participants, both Jews and Muslims and exchanging a few words with them was just as important for me, I who have always lived amongst the believers of the two religions. I wish with all my heart that efforts such as this congress will more than ever bring together the believers of the different religions for a better comprehension and understanding, to spread and build a little more peace in our troubled world. This congress is certainly one of the necessary and useful steps in this direction. In the meantime I send you my very best wishes. May God bless you. KAMAL HANNA BATHISH Auxiliary Bishop of Jerusalem The responsibility of religious men for peace is even heavier than public or political figures, because when they silence they find themselves!to be in contradiction with Faith, which imposes on them courage and truth. Our future depends on the courage and the audacity of theologists of each religion to greet their respective adepts, their co religious partners, to condemn out loud and without detour, fanatics and violence. Each one must take care of their own fanatics. ALI EL SAMMAN Director of the Al Azhar Committee for Inter-religious Affairs, Egypt Interfaith dialogue is a difficult business. The issues at stake are highly emotional and intense. Therefore, we should not be worried when the temperature in the room increases. It is good! What we need to make sure is that the framework or the ground rules of dialogue are maintained. The most impressive part of the conference to me was the fact that most of the participants never talked or met people from the other side. Usually when I go to interfaith dialogue events, it consists of people who know each other very well (what I call "the already convinced"). In the 2nd World Congress many participants where of the hard core of religious conservatism and that was a very refreshing site. MICHAEL BERGMAN Clinton Global Intiative. Deputy Topic Director Religion, Conflict and Reconciliation Track I believe that such a gathering could not only serve as an invaluable international testimony to Jewish-Muslim good will and desire for peaceful reconciliation, but also impact upon perceptions and attitudes that can contribute to a peaceful resolution of conflict in the Holy Land.! DAVID ROSEN Former Chief Rabbi of Ireland, Director of the International Chair of the American Jewish Committee 33

35 Message of support to the World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace Today, as the foundations of the world shake with the tremors of conflict, God is calling the children of Abraham to a supreme challenge one that will test our religious imaginations to the limit. Can we children of the same God, descendants of the same ancestor live together, make space for one another, and move beyond the tensions that have so often accompanied our relationship in the past? We have so much in common. We are committed to a pure and profound monotheism. We believe in the Divine authority of our sacred texts. We cherish education as a sacred task. We believe in the religious significance of law as a revelation of the Divine will. In an age of relativism, we hold firm to absolute values. In a culture of materialism we insist on the primacy of the spirit. We care about the family and the importance of modesty and self restraint. We are committed to a world of economic justice and care for the poor. These principles are at risk, now and for the foreseeable future, but our commitment to them is strong, and this gives us strength. Let us share our strength in dedication to the principles we hold in common, and let us respect our differences where our traditions diverge.a message of joint commitment by Muslim and Jewish spiritual leaders will send light to guide a troubled world. JONATHAN SACKS Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth It would be a great pleasure for me to see that the advocates of the forces of Good, that believe in good actions, join their efforts with other doers of good and work towards a just and humanitarian cause to attain a noble objective: put a stop to terrorism, establish lasting peace and entice populations to dialogue as to give solutions to their problems. This will help us to better distinguish our problems, to put our efforts together to arrive at an efficient solution and set concluding action on the field. These are my personal convictions that are the fruit of a long meditation that I expressed some time ago. I hope that the actors of this event will reach a concluding solution so to limit fostering tension and put an end to one of the sources of peoples' misery. MOKHTAR SELLAMI Former Chief Mufti of Tunisia Religion has always played an important role in this region. Unfortunately, it is all too often used negatively, as an instrument of war and extremism, whereas its natural role should be one of appeasement and reconciliation. Bringing prominent religious leaders together from the Middle East and around the Jewish and Moslem world under the auspices of the King of Morocco, in order to discuss peace and its religious roots, sends precisely the right message to the peoples of the region. DANIEL SHEK Israel s Ambassador to France 34

36 PRESS REVIEW! At the end of the First World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace, articles (Google sources) of various languages have been published in the international press. At the end of the Second World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace, a total of articles appeared (from simple quotations to complete reports) in the international press (in Asia, Africa, the ex- USSR, Europe, the United States, etc.) and on Internet sites in many different languages. Some articles are presented in the following pages. A great number of radio and television transmissions were also made during and after the Congress. (CNN, Al-Jazeera, Al-Arabia, MBC, TV1, Israeli Television, Euronews, RFI, RFO, etc.)! Full Press Review available upon request 35

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39 PRESS REVIEW Brussels: Imams-Rabbis international congress ends By: Anjum Kermani BRUSSELS, Belgium: The first three-day World Congress of Imams and Rabbis for Peace aimed at creating a dialogue and a durable partnership between Islam and Judaism concluded at the Egmont Palace in Brussels. Azoulay, a Moroccan Jew, called on participants at the second day of the conference, to discuss "the challenges facing both (Muslim and Jewish) communities," to favor progress and modernity" and to reject "archaism and obscurantism." "The right to freedom, justice, and dignity of peoples and nations, is the same whether we are Muslims, Jews or Christians," he insisted before calling upon Imams and Rabbis to be "the champions of the sovereignty of the Palestinians" to live in peace and dignity side by side with Israelis. In his welcome address, Alain Michel, founder of the Geneva-based Hommes de Parole (Men of the Word), the organizer of the event, said the meeting, opened Monday night, will give a "new impetus for understanding" between Judaism and Islam. Rene-Samuel Sirat, former chief Rabbi of France, in his speech, noted that Abraham was attached to all monotheistic religions whose fundamental teaching was love among human beings. Palestinian authority representative for inter-religious affairs Sheikh Talal Sedir recited a verse from the Holy Quran inviting the people of the book for dialogue. The conference which is attended by over 500 experts from the Middle East, North Africa, Asia, Europe, Africa and America, more than what was expected, according to organizers, is held under the High patronage of King Mohammed VI of Morocco and Belgium's King Albert II. Imams, Rabbis Promote Dialogue in Brussels Conference BRUSSELS, January 5 (IslamOnline.net) Imams and rabbis opened Wednesday, January 5, in Brussels a third day of an interfaith conference aimed at promoting greater understanding and dialogue between Muslims and Jews. The Muslim scholars and Jewish clerics are building on two days of marathon discussions, which opened Monday, January 3, on means of combating Islamophobia and anti-semitism. Entitled Imams and Rabbis for Peace, the conference brings together some 150 Muslim and Jewish leaders and is held under the auspices of Belgian King Albert II and Moroccan Monarch Mohammad VI, Britain s daily The Telegraph reported. The event is organized by the Paris-based peace foundation Hommes de Parole (Men of Their Word). Hommes de Parole sponsored a similar conference between representatives of the Islamic and Jewish faiths in 2003 in Switzerland. Co-Existence Addressing the conference's opening session on Monday, Dr. Abduljalil Sajid, a senior figure of the respectable Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), said the British Muslim delegation called for naming and shaming extremists of both sides. Ninety-nine per cent of Muslims, along with 99.9 per cent of Jews favored peaceful co-existence, he said. The chief rabbi of France, Joseph Sitruck, hailed the conference as an important moment because it carries hope and freedom for a disillusioned world. 38

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43 A Bridge between Human Beings The Words I utter are my being, that I hold in my hands Thomas More Excerpt from Charter of Hommes de Parole Hommes de Parole Foundation Switzerland/Geneva Registered Office 32, rue des Grottes 1201 Geneva France/Paris Administration 38, rue Liancourt Paris Tel: Fax: Jerusalem Old City, P.O. Box Jerusalem Tel: www. hommesdeparole.org Contact Chris Sacarabany + 33 (0) csacarabany@hommesdeparole.org 42