Perception of Islam ‘distorted’

Press, 15 May 1987, Page 5

Perception of Islam ‘distorted’

Western perceptions of Islam and Islamic countries had been shaped by “distorted” reports, said the secretary-general of the Organisation of Islamic Conferences, Dr Syed Sharifuddin Pirzada, in Christchurch last evening. The Islamic Conferences, established in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 1971, represents 46 Islamic States including Libya and Iran. It was formed with the goal of promoting Islamic solidarity by co-ordinating social, economic, scientific and cultural activities. Dr Pirzada, the former. Attorney-General of Pakistan, is leading the highest-powered Islamic p delegation to the

South Pacific. The group earlier met the Prime Minister, Mr Lange, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Bolger, and the chairman of the Maori Council, Sir Graham Latimer. Dr Pirzada said that the visit to New Zealand allowed the conference to establish contacts with overseas Governments and the Muslim communities living in non-Islamic States. "I have already exchanged views with your Prime Minister on matters of mutual interest — the Middle East, the IranIraq war, and terrorism. We also discussed the 4000-member Muslim community in New Zealand. I appreciate the

manner in which New Zealand is dealing with them and their problems.”

While noting New Zealand’s “close trade ties” with several Islamic nations, including Libya, he said that Libyan influence in the South Pacific was a question of a sovereign, nation’s foreign policy. The conference could not influence the Government of Libya. “It cannot interfere with the activities of a sovereign State. What Libya chooses to do in the South Pacific is its own affair unless these activities disrupt other countries or world peace.” The conference also sought improved contacts with Western nations whose view of Islam had been affected by distorted accounts and reports.

Muslim community

in New Zealand hoped to establish a public information office to improve New Zealand’s awareness and knowledge of Islamic culture and politics. “Islam, Christianity and Judaism already share a great deal in common. Even the Pope has said this. Islam wants world peace. It is a matter of educating people. “New Zealand might

forget that it has two major Islamic countries — Malaysia and Indonesia — as neighbours,” Dr Pirzada said.

During a 24-hour visit to Christchurch, he visited the Islamic centre and met local representatives of the Muslim community.