Orientalists who contributed to the dissemination of the Islamic heritage and promote its civil and humanitarian values have a positive impact on the world, Muslim World League (MWL) Secretary-General Mohammed al-Issa has stressed.
Speaking at the Russian Academy of Sciences' Institute of Oriental Studies before a number of orientalists, scholars, and researchers, Issa welcomed the noble aims of orientalism and assured his support to it.
The Secretary-General held a meeting with the Director of the Institute, Vitaly Naumkin, and the two signed a cooperation agreement for the promotion of culture, science and education in Russia. The deal also promotes the concepts of moderation, tolerance and national integration.
It also aims to introduce the true values of Islam and address Islamophobia, as well as provide lessons of Arabic language and promote it in Russia. In addition, the two sides agreed on implementing various projects whether scientific conferences, seminars, open lectures, panel discussions, exhibitions and others.
As part of the agreement, both officials agreed on exchanging visits and the implementation of joint educational and research projects, organization exhibitions and publications.
They also decided to prepare and disseminate scientific, reference and thematic studies and the results of research in areas of common interest, as well as provide scientific and legitimate support for interfaith dialogue and training courses for researchers and specialists in Russian and foreign scientific, educational and cultural institutions.
In the end, the two sides agreed on establishing a follow-up committee which will prepare an annual plan that determines the work programs within the areas of joint cooperation and implementation mechanisms. The committee is also required to submit a detailed report to the leading committees of the Muslim World League and the Institute of Oriental Studies.
