Coexistence of different peoples and cultures is vital for peace to prevail in the world, the fourth session of the Forum of Strategic Vision Group, Russia and the Islamic World, has said. A communiqué issued at the end of the forum here on Wednesday said coexistence was essential in eliminating violence, fanaticism and terrorism and spreading the culture of leniency and mutual cooperation according to common values that are endorsed by religions, cultures and different civilizations and promoting common humanitarian values within societies. The communiqué welcomed the interfaith dialogue meeting at the United Nations in New York in November that will discuss King Abdullah's initiative to promote interfaith dialogue Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Endowment, and Guidance, Sheikh Saleh Aal Al-Sheikh, moderating the forum said King Abdullah's historic visit to meet Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican last November reflected the King's far-sighted vision for a peaceful world and a more constructive international partnership. Most conflicts stem from complete ignorance of the other, so human beings need to communicate to peacefully co-exist, he said. Dialogue with the other is an Islamic essence and it does not mean giving concessions, said Sheikh Saleh Bin Humaid, Chairman of the Shoura Council. “It is all about getting to know the other to clear any misunderstanding,” he said. __
