Syrian Grand Mufti, Mehbooba discuss ways to end violence in Muslim countries

Srinagar, Sep 29 (IANS) Syrian Grand Mufti Ahmad Bader Eddin Muhammad Adib Hassoun and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Friday discussed ways and means to end the cult of violence in Muslim countries, an official statement said.

Currently visiting the Valley, the Syrian Grand Mufti called on the Chief Minister here, it said.

"The two leaders discussed several issues confronting the Muslim world and the need to weed out the cult of violence from the Muslim society. They also underscored the need for inculcating values of peace, tolerance and coexistence among the younger generation.

"The two leaders exchanged ideas on education, social system, history and welfare of the Muslim world and the need for an effective inter faith communication to spread the message of Islam," the statement said.

Mehbooba Mufti informed the visiting dignitary of various socio-developmental initiatives undertaken by her government in the State including the education and empowerment of women and invited him to visit the state again for exhaustive sessions with the local Islamic scholars and academicians, it added.

"The Grand Mufti informed the Chief Minister that he was happy to meet her and know about her views on the subjects discussed," the statement said, adding he termed her a "role model for the Muslim world".

Noting Syrian women would take an inspiration from her personality, he also extended an invitation to her to visit Syria.

The visit of the Syrian Grand Mufti has been coordinated by Indian Council of Cultural Relations, and he was accompanied by Syrian Ambassador to India Riad Abbas, Advisor in Syrian Embassy, Nazen Nasri and other officials of Syrian Embassy besides ICCR Regional Director Balwant Thakur, the statement said.