Religious Cultural Centers Not Closing Down: Saudi Islamic Affairs
Minister's statement

www.spa.gov.sa/html/archive_e.asp?srcfile=599851&NDay=09/12/2003&wcatg=0

Beirut, Dec 9, SPA (Saudi Press Agency)-- Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs,
Endowments, Call and Guidance Sheikh Saleh Bin Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Al
Al-Sheikh pointed out that the eighth session of the Executive Council of
Endowments and Islamic Affairs Ministers due to start here on Wednesday will
focus on significant topics topped by terrorism and occupation of parts of
the Arab and Muslim World.

In an arrival press statement here today, he said that it is improper to
attribute terrorism to Islam and other divine religions since Islam's emblem
is peace, indicating that all religions lay stress on mercy, peace and
amicability.

He affirmed that divine messages have nothing to do with any call for
terrorism, extremism and violence, stressing that Islam calls for
moderation.

Replying to a question on the Washington Post newspaper's report on the
Kingdom's closure of religious cultural centers in its embassies, he noted
that this news item is incorrect, adding that the centers are working and
they are part of the Kingdom's message.
--SPA 1808 Local Time 1508 GMT