Resolution No 14/9-C (IS)
on
The Universal Declaration on Dialogue among Civilizations

The Ninth Session of the Islamic Summit Conference, Session of Peace and Development "Al-Aqsa Intifada", held in Doha, State of Qatar from 16 to 17 Shaban 1421H (12-13 November 2000),

Recalling the principles of the Tehran Declaration adopted in December 1997 by the Eighth Session of the Islamic Summit Conference affirming that Islamic Civilization has always and throughout history been rooted in peaceful coexistence, cooperation, mutual understanding, as well as constructive dialogue with other civilizations, beliefs and ideologies. The Tehran Declaration also underlined the need to establish understanding and interaction among cultures in keeping with Islamic teachings of tolerance, justice and peace;

Welcoming the resolution passed by the UN General Assembly on November 3rd, 1998, which was proposed by H.E. Mohammad Khatami, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Chairman of the Summit, which expressed the General Assembly's firm determination to facilitate and encourage dialogue among civilizations in the beginning of the third millennium, which designated the year 2001 as the "UN Year for Dialogue Among Civilizations", and which called on governments, the UN System including UNESCO, and relevant Non-Governmental Organizations, to set up and implement adequate cultural, educational and social programmes aiming at enhancing the concept of dialogue among civilizations;

Emphasizing its recommendation No.13/22-C, inter-alia, on the necessity that OIC plays an active and efficient role on the dialogue among civilizations;

 Believing that virtual and trustful dialogue among civilizations shall generate confidence among nations and lay firm grounds for peaceful interaction among them and lead to the rejection of unfounded claim of inter-civilization conflict;

Renewing its deep conviction in the immense cultural contribution throughout the Ages, offered by Islamic civilization to humanity in all areas and its ability to continue its interaction and enrichment to other contemporary human civilizations, particularly in this age of globalization, communication and technology revolution as well as the space age;

Welcoming the Tehran Declaration on Dialogue Among Civilizations adopted by the Symposium held in Tehran from 3 to 5 May 1999 as well as the recommendations therein.

Taking note of Resolution No. 14/27-C adopted by the 27th ICFM held in Kuala Lumpur, 27 to 30 June 2000;

Commends the persistent efforts exerted by the Organization of the Islamic Conference and its Secretary General, and invites the latter to continue his successful endeavours in order to crown this initiative with success.

Having considered the Report of the Secretary General;

1. EXPRESSES its deep appreciation to H.E. President Mohammad Khatami, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Chairman of the Eighth Islamic Summit, for having taken the valuable initiative to launch the Dialogue among Civilizations and considers that this initiative, unprecedented in contemporary history, fulfills the aspirations deeply rooted in the traditions of the Muslim Ummah.

2. ADOPTS the Universal Declaration on Dialogue Among Civilizations" after the meeting of the Governmental Experts Group held at the General Secretariat headquarters in Jeddah from 5 to 7 February 2000 (DOC.NO.EGDAC/2-2000/REP.1 Final), and also the "Executive Work Programme for Dialogue Among Civilizations" adopted by the Second Meeting of the Intergovernmental Group of Experts at the Headquarters of the General Secretariat on 23-25 September, 2000 (Doc. No. EGDAC/20-2000/PROG.D). It also expresses satisfaction for the constitution by the Secretary General of a special committee from the Member States to negotiate thereon with the other geographic groups at the UN and to follow up the various phases of the matter at the UN.

3. REQUESTS the Secretary General to follow up this issue and report thereon to the Tenth Session of the Islamic Summit Conference.