PARIS, 4 October — Dr. Abdullah Al-Turki, secretary-general of the Makkah-based Muslim World League, stated yesterday that all Islamic organizations and communities have opposed the planned US-led military attack on Iraq.
Addressing French journalists here, he said such an attack would have negative consequences on the region’s economy and security.
Turki also hinted at the Islamic world’s rejection of the use of force to settle problems. "There are the United Nations and international agreements to resolve problems," he added.
Turki said the current visit of an MWL delegation to France, Italy and Russia was aimed at holding constructive dialogue with politicians, thinkers and academics and removing misconceptions about Islam and Muslims.
He said certain parties were "irresponsibly" accusing Islamic organizations and charities of funding terrorism. "Our organizations are doing humanitarian work to meet the needs of Muslim communities in various parts of the world," the MWL chief said.
Turki urged Western media to be reasonable and objective while reporting on Islamic organizations and charitable societies. He called upon Western writers and journalists to focus on activities that benefit the whole humanity, instead of working for Zionism.
Turki, who arrived here yesterday, said the Islamic world condemns all forms of terrorism. "Every terrorist activity targeting the life, wealth and honor of a person is considered a criminal and despicable act in Islam."
He said certain parties were exploiting the Sept. 11 attacks in the United States to tarnish the image of Islam and Muslims.
"Islam works for the welfare and prosperity of humanity and does not intend to harm any person or destroy any culture. It engages in constructive dialogue with other cultures and communities," he added.
Turki and his delegation are expected to meet French Interior Minister Daniel Vaillant. "The meeting aims at strengthening relations between the French government and Muslims of the country and understand France’s views on the Islamic nation," he said.
"We want to give the message that Islam is a universal and open religion that calls for security, peace and cooperation. We’ll also inform the minister of MWL’s activities and objectives," he said."There are certain parties who try to distort the Islamic call of Sheikh Mohammed ibn Abdul Wahab. His call was to the puritan and moderate Islam that condemns extremism," Turki said.
