King Opens the First International Islamic Conference

Amman - (Petra) - His Majesty King Abdullah II has called for confronting the unjust campaigns to which Islam is presentlysubjected, rejecting discord and uniting Muslims words and theirpositions, noting that these noble objectives form the essence of the Amman Message, which was launched by Jordan in the holy months of Ramadan last year.

The King said in his address to the first International Islamic Conference, which opened in Amman today with the participation of 170 Islamic scholars and intellectuals, that Muslims has the obligation to present to the world the true essence of Islam-the religion of moderation, forgiveness, mercy and rational, and scientific dialogue.

"The division between the children of the Ummah, acts of violence and terrorism practiced by some groups and organizations, the accusations of apostasy and the killing of Muslims in the name of Islam, do not correspond to the principles and spirit of Islam and Islam disavows them," King Abdullah added.

Prominent Muslims scholars and intellectuals will discuss during this three-day event issues and topics outlined in the "Amman Message".

These include basic aspects and characteristics of Islam in its dealings with the Human community, hurdles and difficulties that Islam faces in contemporary society and how to overcome them and correcting the image of Islam in contemporary society.

Following is the full text of the King's Speech:-

In the name of God, the most merciful, the compassionate,And praise be to God, Lord of all worlds, prayers and peace be upon our master, Muhammad.

And on all his house and companions, Distinguished scholars,Honored ladies and gentlemen, Peace, God's mercy and blessings be upon you.

It is a real pleasure for me to welcome you at your meeting todayin Amman, to discuss the different issues and challenges facing theMuslim Ummah (nation).

You are most welcome, guests and scholars, for whom we hold respect and appreciation. Dear Brothers,Over the ages, Islam has established a basis for better human relations between individuals, nations and people, irrespective of difference in religion, color or gender, on the principles of tolerance and dialogue with others, this was meant for the good of mankind, everywhere, at all times.

Yet today, the Ummah is defamed, abused and falsely accused when it comes to discussions of the Ummah's role in this age.

As a start, let us confess that we, Muslims, have not always fulfilled our obligations towards ourselves. Some Muslims, or those who promulgate "Islamic" slogans, have defamed Islam and Muslims, and harmed Muslims, intentionally and non-intentionally.

The divisions between the children of the Ummah, acts of violence and terrorism practiced by some groups and organizations, what is going on in Iraq.

Pakistan and other Muslim countries in the form of accusations of apostasy and the killing of Muslims in the name of Islam, do not correspond to the principles and spirit of Islam, and Islam disavows them.