(RNS) A global conference of about 300 interfaith leaders concluded July 18 in Spain with a declaration that rejects terrorism and calls for a special United Nations session on dialogue.
Calling terrorism “one of the most serious obstacles confronting dialogue and coexistence,” the “Madrid Declaration” was issued after a two-day summit convened by Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah.
The declaration was released by the Saudi embassy in Washington, and the conference was organized by the Mecca-based Muslim World League. Prominent leaders of Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism and Shintoism attended.
The statement affirmed human unity, peace, the family and environmental preservation. It emphasized the need for cooperation among people from different backgrounds.
“Diversity of cultures and civilizations among people is a sign of God and a cause for human advancement and prosperity,” the declaration reads.