King Abdullah II of Jordan underlined the need for fostering unity among Muslims representing various schools of thought in order to foil the attempts to tarnish the image of Islam. Inaugurating the International Islamic Conference here this morning, King Abdullah urged the Islamic scholars to combine their efforts to present the true picture of Islam as a religion of peace and moderation, as well as to highlight its ideals for promoting tolerance, harmony and peaceful coexistence of various communities.

More than 170 Islamic scholars and thinkers, representing various schools of thought from more than 40 countries, are taking part in the four-day event, organized by the Jordanian Ministry of Religions Affairs. The conference was aimed at spreading Islam's universal message of tolerance and civility. It will project the moderate and modern image of Islam besides highlighting the creative role Islam has to play in the contemporary society.

Several working papers focusing on Islam's stance on extremism, terrorism, reform and human rights are being presented at the event. The status of woman in Muslim society, the Islamic way of achieving comprehensive development and the contributions of Muslims in the human civilization will also be on the agenda.

Note: King Abdullah was making his statement while in London four underground stations and a bus were bombed by Al-Qaeda.