IINA – 05

Spain: Islam firmly rooted, says ambassador

Cairo, Muharram 20/Apr 3,2002 (IINA) – Spain’s ambassador to Egypt, Pedro Panjua, has said that there are not less than 27 Islamic centers in his country, apart from the numerous mosques and 34 Islamic school, adding that Spain takes great interest in Muslim affairs in the country. He told IINA here that Spain’s attitude toward Islam and Muslims has not been changed by the 9/11 events in the US, adding that Islam was devoid of violence, and that it was a religion of tolerance and peace. He said those who kill innocent people are far removed from Islam.

Turning to the Islamic headgear for women, the Hijab, the ambassador said that since Muslims have their own schools and mosques, they are free to wear whatever they liked, adding that the wearing of the Hijab is a right that is guaranteed to everyone.

On the events in Palestine, the ambassador said that his country was the current president of the European Union, and that it has asked Israel to allow such organizations as the International Red Cross access to the Palestinians who need medical and other relief aid. He said his country has also asked Israel to do everything possible to return to the negotiating table with the Palestinians, and work toward a peaceful resolution of the problem.