The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, New York

Foreign Advisor Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury called upon the UN membership to dispel "misunderstandings among different faiths".

He said that followers of different religions and faiths in Bangladesh live in a state of tranquil harmony, as we have been able to inculcate in our peoples a sense of tolerance and respect for diversity.

He made these remarks at a High Level Meeting on Inter-religious Understanding, chaired by the President of the General Assembly Dr. Srgjan Kerim and atended by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday.

About 72 speakers, mostly Foreign Ministers representing their countries spoke at the conference, said a press release. He added that the current state of globalization poses many challenges to some countries.

Iftekhar said that spread of education, alleviation of poverty, empowerment of women and polarization in the community is needed to bring peace and harmony. He urged international cooperation to bring about these. He further stated that every year Bangladesh introduces a resolution in the General Assembly on 'The Culture of Peace'. This year too Bangladesh would do the same.

He hoped that the Bangladesh initiative receives an overwhelming support among the UN membership.

He noted Bangladeshi contribution in peacekeeping and said whenever Bangladeshi peacekeepers are present the message of social harmony is being propagated.