Pope calls for interreligious dialogue to stop terrorism

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Pope Francis called for interreligious dialogue on Friday (November 28) "so that there will be an end of all forms of fundamentalism and terrorism which gravely demean the dignity of every man and woman and exploit religion."

The Pope said fighting hunger and poverty, rather than military intervention alone, were key to stopping Islamist militants carrying out "grave persecutions" in Syria and Iraq, referring to the Islamic State.

Speaking at the start of a three-day trip to Turkey, Francis said "terrorist violence" showed no sign of abating in Turkey's southern neighbours, where Islamist insurgents had declared a caliphate and persecuted Shi'ite Muslims, Christians and others who do not share their ultra-radical brand of Sunni Islam.

"It is essential that all citizens - Muslim, Jewish, and Christian - both in the provision and practice of the law, enjoy the same rights and respect the same duties," the Pope stated.

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