JEDDAH, 22 September 2004 — Crown Prince Abdullah yesterday called upon Islamic scholars to promote dialogue among them to reach a consensus on contemporary issues and work for improving Islam’s image and reputation tarnished by terrorists and extremists.
Addressing the Muslim World League’s constituent council in Makkah, Prince Abdullah said the deviant group had tarnished the image of Islam.
Prince Abdullah was referring to Al-Qaeda sympathizers blamed for a series of bombings and shootings in various parts of the Kingdom over the past 16 months. More than 90 people, mostly expatriates, have been killed and over 200 injured in the violence.
“It is the duty of every Muslim to uphold the reputation of Islam. Unfortunately, some members of the community have tarnished the image of the Islamic faith,” the crown prince told the gathering.
Prince Abdullah called upon the scholars to project the true picture of Islam. Truthfulness, sincerity, morality, humaneness and generosity are the hallmarks of Islam, he added.
He expressed happiness over the growth of Islam across Europe and America and other parts of the world, despite the irresponsible actions of some Muslim individuals and the smear campaigns of enemies.
Prince Abdullah emphasized the need to unify Muslim ranks disregarding the various groups and schools of thought (madahib).
