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UN rejects use of religion to justify killing

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-11-14 09:50

UNITED NATIONS -- Participants of the two-day UN high level meeting on culture of peace concluded here on Thursday rejected in a declaration the use of religion to justify the killing of innocent people and acts of terrorism, violence and coercion.

"The General Assembly has sent a strong message to the world," said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon at a press conference at the UN headquarters Thursday afternoon shortly before the conference, which was initiated by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, was drawing to a close.

"King Abdullah's initiative has come at a time when the need for dialogue among religions, cultures and civilizations has never been greater," said the secretary-general.

"It has brought together people who might not otherwise have a chance to interact. Along with other initiatives, it will contribute to building a more harmonious world."

Ban spoke highly of the meeting, saying that he pledged his full support to this effort and that he was convinced that this event was "an important step forward."

"Concerned about serious instances of intolerance, discrimination, hatred expression, and harassment of minority religious communities of all faith, participating states underlined the importance of promoting dialogue, understanding and tolerance among human beings, as well as respect for all their diverse religions, cultures and beliefs," the declaration, adopted by all the participating member states, read.

"Participating states expressed their commitment to strengthening and supporting existing mechanisms within the United Nations for promoting tolerance and human rights, preserving the institution of the family, protecting the environment, spreading education, eradicating poverty, and fighting drug abuse, crime and terrorism, noting the positive role of religions, beliefs and moral humanitarian principles in tackling these challenges," the declaration said.

The two-day conference, presided over by General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann, was attended by heads of state and senior government officials of more than 75 member states including US President George W. Bush and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown.