President Hassan Rouhani has called on the leaders of the Muslim world to take the lead in creating a world free of violence and extremism.
“At this critical juncture in Islamic history… a harsh and doctored image of Islam threatens the heritage of Islamic civilization and philosophy and our co-existence with other religions,” he said on Tuesday, Press TV reported.
Rouhani made the remarks in separate messages to heads of Muslim states on the occasion marking the beginning of the fasting month of Ramadan.
At such a point in time, Rouhani said, “it is necessary that … we present a real picture of the merciful religion, the Islam of peace, amity, and brotherhood to the people of the world and lead the creation of a world free of violence and extremism.”
Rouhani has championed a World Against Violence and Extremism (WAVE) initiative, which was approved by the UN General Assembly in December 2013 -- the same year he came to office on a platform of moderation and fraternity with the outside world.
In his message to Muslim leaders, he said let the holy month be a time of “building and strengthening friendly and brotherly bonds among the Muslim Ummah.
The president wished well for the Muslim heads of state and governments and success for their peoples.
During the holy month of Ramadan adult Muslims are required to fast from sunrise to sunset. They are also expected to strengthen their character through self-restraint, charitable deeds, and introspection.
