A/55/280/Add.1 Annex Meeting of Religions in an Era of Faith and Tolerance (Tarsus, 10 and 11 May 2000) We would like to state that the “Meeting of Religions in an Era of Faith and Tolerance” which took place between 10-11 May 2000 in Tarsus, under the auspices of the Presidency of Religious Affairs is a universal step contributing to peace for the people of our country and for humanity. The site of the meeting, Tarsus, is significant because this town is not only a part of Anatolia which is a cradle for many cultures and religions but also a place where leaders of Christian religion such as St. Paul, prominent figures of Islam and some Prophets chose to live. Religion is a significant reality, which seriously influences human life. To put it differently, religious conviction is one of the most important causes of social differentiation. We would like to declare to the world once more that we live in peace and repose today as members of different religions in this country where many historical experiences occurred and people from various origins and religions co-existed in peace and lived together. While stating this we do not overlook the existence of certain difficulties. There are some problems regarding freedom of religion and conscience, freedom of faith, education, culture and religious practices in all parts of the world. However, these problems are not insurmountable. Significant progress is being observed in the process of democratisation. Impacts of these developments can only be overcome by patience and tolerance. We are happy to observe that representatives of religions have the intention of co-operation in this process. The “International European Union Council” meeting, 3-7 May 2000, Istanbul and the “Meeting of Religions in an Era of Faith and Tolerance” 10-11 May 2000, Tarsus, both of which were organized by the Presidency of Religious Affairs are clear indications of a good intention in this regard. History provides us with many examples, which show that different religions and ideas lived together in peace. However, history also shows us that there have been conflicts and wars between religions. We also know that even co-religionists have disputes and conflicts among themselves. Yet, what causes conflicts and creates hostility among us is not our religious faith but those who fail to understand their religions properly, adopt an extremist path or use their religions for their own interests. Moreover, misunderstanding or lack of information about other religions also contributes to these conflicts. Solution of these problems requires teaching of all religions correctly as well as teaching other religions neutrally. As religious representatives who are aware of our responsibilities, we would like to emphasise that we are determined to work together to remove the errors. Inter-religious dialog does not mean to unite religions or melt them in a pot. Inter-religious dialog is a search to discuss issues of common interest and an effort to find ways of cooperation in tolerance and mutual understanding while preserving all differences without forcing one another. During the process of this search one should emphasise common interests rather than differences. Therefore religious leaders have important tasks in this process. Indeed it is well known that Abrahamic religions to which we belong, invite human beings to peace and love. Religious leaders and clergy should spread messages of peace and love in an age when humanity is in need of these more than ever. Members of religions should also work together against dangers such as atheism, drugs, hunger, war, violence, terrorism and xenophobia which cause disappearance of love among people. We declare our wish to the public with respect that the common step we have taken here with this belief and determination should be continued. Mehmet Nuri Yilmaz, President of Religious Affairs of Turkey Bartolemeos I, Greek Orthodox Patriarch, Istanbul Mesrob II, Patriarch of Turkish Armenians Ishak Haleva, Vice Chief Rabbi in Turkey 31