Friday, August 01, 2008

Blair embarks on inter-faith understanding ...


The war on Iraq must have been traumatic for former British Prime Minister Tony Blair who is now busy promoting inter-faith dialogue.
He says the dialogue does address the root causes of terrorism for it lessens ignorance and promotes greater understanding among people of different religions.
We had asked him if inter-faith dialogue could address the root causes of terrorism since Western governments had failed to do so despite repeated calls by the Islamic world since the 9/11 terror attacks.
Blair was the British prime minister when the US-British coalition force invaded Iraq in 2003. He retired in June last year after 10 years in office.
Blair, who is on his first visit to Malaysia to give a lecture on the Rule of Law at the 22nd Sultan Azlan Shah Law Lecture today, said he was actually disappointed that he had just discovered the country.
"After some days (in Malaysia), I find it's a wonderful country, really beautiful country, (with) very warm people. Very lively, actually.
"In cultural terms and every other sense and there is a lot going on which you can rightly be proud. This is my first visit, I hope it won't be my last, I'm sure it won't be," said the casually-dressed Blair.
He admitted during the interview that he was a fan of Newcastle United FC.
"I know many people out here who are either Manchester United or Arsenal fans," he said.

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