ISTANBUL - Mesrob II, the Patriarch of Armenians in Turkey, said on Tuesday that Jews, Christians and Muslims experienced affection and tolerance which were the conditions of their belief together in Turkey.
Mesrob II hosted an evening meal during the Ramadan in Istanbul.
Speaking in the evening meal, Mesrob II said that the world was a scene of important developments in every field and noted, ``we wish that we could see the same development in peace, tolerance, brotherhood, equality and ethics.``
Stressing that there was no need to pessimism, Mesrob II said, ``here are the tables we are sharing during the Ramadan. We, as Jews, Christians and Muslims have gathered around these tables in Turkey and experienced affection and tolerance which are the conditions of our belief.``
Mesrob II stated that peace, health, tranquility and brotherhood were good things that everybody wanted to experience but people could not want those values only for their own nations and religions in today`s shrinking world.
``These are goals that all humanity should reach together,`` Mesrob II said.
Mesrob II said, ``those who say that `I love God` and hate their brothers are liars. Let`s unite our prayers as Jewish, Christian and Muslim people who believe in God, beauty, the right and truth. And, let`s pray our God for more peace and affection.``
``Availing myself of this opportunity, I implore God`s mercy over our Muslim and Jewish citizens and security officials who lost their lives in bomb attacks on two synagogues in Istanbul on Saturday. I would also like to offer my condolences to their families and our nation. I pray for the injured to recover soon,`` Mesrob II noted.
Mesrob II added, ``seeing this unity and solidarity touches our people and gives them the strength to bear difficulties and sorrow. Devilish attacks of fanatics and so-called believers can never overwhelm this solidarity.``
(BRC) 18.11.2003