Khatamiterms universities as centers of thoughts

IRNA, Iran
Sept 9 2004

Yerevan, Sept 9, IRNA — President Mohammad Khatami here Thursday said
universities are the centers of thoughts and champions of dialogue
among civilizations.

“I am happy (the initiative of) dialogue among civilizations has been
welcomed by university professors and students,” Khatami said after
delivering a speech at Yerevan State University.

Human beings faced war, grudge, terror and two world wars over the
past century and terrorism also was expanded in the world, he added.
He noted that dialogue among civilizations seeks the rule of justice
in the world and direct human life towards peace.

The UN General Assembly accepted the initiative in 2001 without
opposition, he said, adding reputable centers have been established
in this regard.

“Although the idea of dialogue among civilizations was put forward in
2001, the anti-peace forces showed reactions including the September
11 events which warmongers filled the world with war and occupation
under the pretext of campaign against terrorism. “But human conscience
is against such actions,” Khatami said. He stressed that Armenia is
among suitable countries to promote dialogue among civilizations.