ENGLISH VERSION — CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY Permanent Mission of Brazil to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva Ch. Louis-Dunant, 15 - 1202 — Geneva / Switzerland Phone: (+41) (0)22 332 50 00 I Fax: (+41) (0)22 910 07 51 E-mail: mission.brazil@delbrasgen.org 6th session of the FORUM ON MINORITY ISSUES Promotion of constructive interfaith dialogue, consultation and exchange Ms. Chairwoman, - Brazil concurs with the Independent Expert, as stated in the "draft recommendations on guaranteeing the rights of religious minorities", in that, in multi-faith societies, efforts to build of trust, understanding, acceptance and interfaith cooperation and exchange should be established.  It is the responsibility of the State to build a culture of peace and tolerance, through the valorization and protection of cultural and religious diversity and the promotion of dialogue among civilizations. For this reason, in 2010, Brazil hosted the III Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations.  As proposed by Ms. Izsak in the draft recommendations, States should consider creating or facilitating national and regional institutions aimed at fostering interfaith dialogue and projects promoting a culture of understanding and the spirit of acceptance. - Brazil is proud to announce that last January 22, following the Celebration of the National Day to Combat Religious Intolerance in Brazil — January 21, the Brazilian government created the National Committee for the Dialogue on Religious Diversity. The Committee will work towards the development of public policies aimed at guaranteeing the right to freedom of religion. It comprises 20 members, 15 of which come from civil society. Thank you.