RP, Pakistan push UN resolution on interfaith dialogue

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines and Pakistan have asked the United Nations to adopt a resolution that would promote religious and cultural dialogues and address extremism and religious conflict.

President Arroyo introduced Draft Resolution No. A/63/L24 titled “Promotion of Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue, Understanding and Cooperation for Peace” at the UN Plenary Meeting on Culture of Peace on Wednesday in New York that was organized by Saudi Arabia.

She said the resolution, a product of a series of consultations among various UN members, was backed by 60 other nations.

“This resolution is the affirmation that mutual understanding and interreligious dialogue constitute an important part of the alliance of civilizations and of a culture of peace,” Mrs. Arroyo said.

She said the resolution encourages the “promotion of dialogue among the media from all cultures and civilizations, emphasizes right to freedom of expression, and affirms that the exercise of this right carries with it duties and responsibilities necessary for respect of the rights of others or reputations of others, protection of national security or of public order, or of public health and morals.

“The adoption of this resolution will demonstrate once again our solidarity for the promotion of interfaith dialogue as a powerful aid to ensure durable peace worldwide,” she said.

She noted that for the first time in the history of the UN, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has issued a report on interreligious and intercultural activities.

Mrs. Arroyo also praised King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia for drawing attention to the World Conference on Dialogue held in Madrid last May.                                    – Paolo Romero