wfn.org | Tunisian Delegation for Religious Freedom

[APD_Info_Schweiz@compuserve.com]

October 8, 2000
Adventist Press Service (APD)
Christian B. Schaeffler, Editor-in-chief
Fax +41-61-261 61 18
APD@stanet.ch
http://www.stanet.ch/APD
CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland

Tunisian Delegation Emphasizes Religious Freedom

Silver Spring, Maryland, USA - During a recent visit to 
the United States sponsored by the State Department, a 
high-ranking delegation from the Tunisian Parliament 
emphasized their country's commitment to religious 
freedom.

The delegation visited the world headquarters of the 
Seventh-day Adventist Church on September 15 at the 
invitation of the International Religious Liberty 
Association (IRLA). During that visit delegation 
spokesperson Dr. Ismail Boulahia said that Tunisia had an 
enviable record of religious freedom and toleration.

"We are known for our social cohesiveness, and tolerance 
is reflected in the character of Tunisians," he said. 
"Tunisia has never rejected any religion and is an oasis 
of peace. The government of Tunisia has worked for the 
freedom of women, for education, and for the country's 
openness to the world. While we are proud of our Islamic 
heritage, we are interested in working with all 
religions."

As a result, said Boulahia, extremist organizations do 
not pose a threat to the country and Tunisia plays an 
important international diplomatic role, particularly in 
religious dialogue in the Islamic world. 

Dr. Bert B. Beach, president of IRLA, welcomed the 
delegation, comprising seven members of the Chamber of 
Deputies, and their words of commitment to religious 
freedom.

"As an organization dedicated to the cause of religious 
freedom we are appreciative of any positive and practical 
developments that will increase freedom of conscience and 
the fundamental human right to choose one's religion," 
said Beach. "We are conscious of the challenges posed in 
some countries by religious extremism or fundamentalism, 
especially those in which a majority faith is dominant, 
and we welcome any increase of religious freedom through 
dialogue and mutual understanding." (282/2000)