Israel’s president hails interfaith dialogue

President Reuven Rivlin chaired on Jan. 23 a moving meeting in Paris between leaders of the Jewish and Muslim communities in France. Rabbis and imams sat in a circle and spoke with the Israeli president about dialogue and coexistence between religions and communities in both Europe and the Middle East. While journalists assisted the events, questions were reserved for the participants so they could express themselves freely. In fact, the president did the same.

"There is a widespread belief that religion is at the heart of ethnic tension. But this is a mistake. The belief that links Judaism and Islam must be the key to peace, not a justification for violence. Now, when nationalism and religious extremism are rising in the world and in the West, your leadership is vital," said Rivlin.