Speeches

Speech to Council of Christians & Muslims

Ashraf Choudhary

21.04.2008

We live in a highly culturally diverse country where all of the world's major religions are represented. We need to understand and plan for the future how the many faiths and cultures in our country and wider region can live in harmony. We need have vision for the future.I do not accept that there is anything inevitable or unavoidable about tension and conflict between ethnicities, cultures, and faiths. I do not believe that the clash of civilization is inevitable.In the regional term I believe it is up to responsible nations and people of good-will to build bridges across the divides which have been created.Fundamentally I believe most peoples yearn for the same things – peace, security and opportunity for our families and communities.At the inter-governmental level we have many regional institutions – in the South Pacific, the Pacific Islands Forum; and, in East Asia, ASEAN, and now the East Asia Summit. Along with APEC which spans the Pacific, these organisations keep government leaders, ministers and officials in regular contact, and build greater understanding in many areas.But it’s important that regional conversations aren’t restricted to the government level. To advance development, peace, and security our peoples need to engage – as you as faith leaders and representatives are at this meeting.The UN’s Alliance of Civilisations Report, described our world as “alarmingly out of balance”. It said that “the need to build bridges between societies, to promote dialogue and understanding, and to forge the political will to address the world’s imbalances has never been greater.” I am sure that it is an appreciation of the need to act to build greater understanding which has motivated everyone who has gathered here today. At the Cebu Dialogue two years ago, which I attended, there was a robust discussion on media issues. The meeting took place in the wake of the controversy over the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) cartoons. Participants agreed to encourage the media to develop voluntary codes and standards, so that it could contribute more to mutual understanding. The vital role of education in promoting interfaith understanding was highlighted in Cebu, as was the importance of co-operation between faiths in fostering peace and security. And participants also noted the potential of grassroots interfaith linkages as instruments for development and promoting community cohesion.These key themes – education, media, security and development are important areas which have been identified for further emphasis.A statement has now been developed as a community-based initiative. It offers a framework within which issues of religion can be discussed by faith communities and the wider public.It emphasises: ·that all faiths and beliefs should be treated equally before the law
·the right to freedom of expression of faith and belief
·the right to safety and security for those of all faiths and beliefs
·the need for our public services and workplaces to accommodate diverse beliefs and practices; and the importance of education in promoting understanding.I believe this statement is a positive outcome of our country's involvement in interfaith processes, and I commend it to our wider community for debate.My hope is that regional dialogues like the Waitangi Dialogue and the Alliance of Civilisations will move beyond words, to deliver a practical plan of action for improving co-operation amongst our region’s faith communities. If we can make progress here; if we can build real bridges based on respect and acknowledgement of the shared values and worth of our different faiths and beliefs, then we can defeat those who trade in hate. This will help ensure that extreme voices do not drown out those of moderation and reason. In that way, we can march forward together hand-in-hand in peace and harmony.Bound by our common human aspirations, we can contribute to building a better world. That is what I am personally committed to. I wish you well.

OTHER REGIONS +NORTHERN