WUNRN
4
October 2007
- The United Nations General Assembly today opens its first-ever formal,
high-level dialogue
on issues of interreligious and intercultural understanding and cooperation.
Freedom of
religion and belief and the need for respect for a diversity of religions and
cultures are on the agenda as delegates open the session, which is being
convened by Assembly President Srgjan Kerim. An informal interactive hearing
with civil society representatives is also being held to provide a platform for
exchange of views among Member States and civil society, including
non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector.
Among those
slated to participate are leading academics, religious leaders and other civil
society representatives. The High Representative of the Secretary-General for
the Alliance of Civilizations, Jorge Sampaio, will address the interactive
informal hearing.
At its last
session, on 20 December 2006, the Assembly adopted a resolution on the
promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, understanding and
cooperation for peace which encouraged Member States, the UN system and civil
society to carry out a range of initiatives in an effort to promote understanding,
tolerance and respect for diversity of religion, belief, culture and language.
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Thank you.