World in dire need of peaceful coexistence, dialogue: Mufti

VIENNA, Oct 30 (MENA) - Egypt's Mufti Shawki Allam said on Wednesday the entire world is in dire need of peaceful coexistence and dialogue to address hatred, terrorism and extremism.

Addressing a conference on the role of religion, media and politics in fighting hate speech and enhancing peaceful coexistence, Allam said Islam advocates coexistence and forbids hatred and discrimination based on gender, color and religion.

He called for joining efforts to spread the universal values of tolerance, love and peace instead of hatred and sedition.

The conference is organized by King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Center for Inter-religious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID).

As many as 200 religious leaders, decision makers and media people are taking part in the conference.