RIYADH, 6 November 2003 — Dr. Saleh Al-Wohaibi, secretary-general of the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY), has said that the perception in the diplomatic community about WAMY is beginning to change and that the community realizes its role in promoting Islamic values of moderation and tolerance among Muslim youth.
Dr. Al-Wohaibi made the statements during an iftar party held at Al-Maqsoura Hall where a large number of diplomats was present. It was the first time that WAMY has engaged in interaction with the members of the diplomatic community to project its activities in an accurate perspective.
The theme of the event was symbolized by Qur’anic verses displayed inside glass panels showing how Islam respects the Prophets Moses and Jesus whose messages were the same as that of the Prophet Muhammad, (peace be upon him).
Referring to the iftar party, Dr. Al-Wohaibi said that it was not only for diplomats but also for businessmen, scholars, academics and volunteers who support WAMY. The secretary-general said some of the ambassadors had discussed with him the future prospects of Islamic and charitable works. Through such contacts, Dr. Al-Wohaibi said, misconceptions about WAMY’s activities and those of other Islamic organizations could be removed.
“We are trying to correct inaccurate perceptions about WAMY through these meetings. We are an open organization and hope that these functions will help the diplomatic community to understand WAMY and other charitable organizations in their proper perspective.”
Responding to a question, the secretary-general said that the organization has now introduced an Arabic language course in response to a suggestion from one of the diplomats. He added that as a result of these efforts, embassies no longer deny visit visas to WAMY officials, even when they declare that the main purpose of their visit is to promote dawa. In the past, they wrote tourism as the reason for wanting a visa.
Earlier, British Ambassador Sherard Cowper-Coles described WAMY as a force for good with its charitable works and its support for Muslim youth around the world. “WAMY is also a force for moderation. It is an organization that resists extremism and helps move Muslims toward a true Islam of peace and tolerance.”
Asked what could be done to bridge the gulf between the West and the Muslim world, the ambassador said it was important that there should be proper inter-faith dialogue with all countries. “Equally important, we should not believe that the Muslim world is on one side and we are on the other. We are both on the same side and face the common problems of terrorism and religious extremism.”
Mathew H. Tueller, counselor for political affairs at the US Embassy, said WAMY has been “playing an essential role in training and educating Muslim youth. We wish it well in those endeavors.”
