Photos showing a different image of Muslim-Christian relations in Egypt from that presented in most media

- Electronic library on Muslim-Christian relations since 1997 – 28,000 articles and reports

- Investigative reporting of hundreds of tensions – analyse patterns

- Seeking peaceful solutions

Founded by:- Sawsan Gabra, Egyptian/Coptic Orthodox- Cornelis Hulsman, 35 years involved in

sociological research and dialogue

Muslims and Christians in the revolution

Muslims solidarity with Christians following an attack – what do they do? Pray!

Muslim Brothers and sisters in Alexandria demonstrating in support of Christians following an attack on a church in March 2011

New Year 2012 – Muslims mourning the attack on a church in Alexandria one year earlier

March 18, 2012 – Muslims providing water all day long to mourning Christians for the death of Pope Shenouda

Qufada: Father Yo’annis (caring for the poor) and Salafi sheikh Hamdi (chairing reconcilliation meetings)

Example of church building after the revolution - (mis) use the weakness of the government. Tens of new churches have been built

Egypt is a country full of problems

BUT

When you experience also this in Egypt can you speak of persecution??

My answer: a firm NO!

But do Christians and Muslims in Egypt need our help to overcome its current difficulties??

My answer: a firm YES! But do this wisely!

Christian responses diverse:-Optimism, army even rebuilds destroyed churches, end of censorship-Pessimism, fear for Islamists, mobs in the streets

Bishop Golta: be optimistic!! Support Egypt!!

What can we do in the West?

- Study, see relations are neither black nor white- Do not blame Islam in general/ seek Muslim friends- Listen to Egyptians experienced in dialogue:

- i.e. Bishop Qulta: religion but not spirituality, - Respect for Islam is NOT belief- Encourage Egyptians

Possible projects:- Publication on Muslim-Christian/Arab-West dialogue with Egyptian

Muslim and Christian scholars participating- Early Warning and Early Response system to encourage civilians to act

in an early stage against developments that could lead to violence. Always in cooperation with Egyptian authorities

Parlementarischer Abend Berlin March 2011.

Visit our website:www.arabwestreport.info

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Thank you for listening!