Islamophobia Biggest Obstacle For World Peace, Says Head Of Turkish Religious Affairs

ISTANBUL - Islam is against all kinds of violence, and Islamophobia is the biggest obstacle for global peace, head of Turkey's Religious Affairs Directorate said at the closing meeting of the 7th meeting of Eurasia Islamic Council.
"As a universal message, Islam is against all kinds of violence, extremism, pressures and intolerance. We announce that we are standing against violence and terrorism no matter who the perpetrators are and which religion they believe in," Ali Bardakoglu told the council meeting that gathered representatives from 42 countries in Istanbul.

"And we are hopeful," Bardakoglu said. "Because Eurasia has a big heritage of religious sciences."

Bardakoglu said the Eurasian geography --from Istanbul to Sarajevo, Samarkand and Tashkent-- was home to several important scholars in history.

"We must be aware of our rich heritage," he said, adding that the Islamic world should overcome prejudices.

Bardakoglu also said Eurasian countries should work together to teach Islam and form a common calender for religious days.