Through the years, the Philippines has advocated the role of interfaith dialogue and cooperation as an instrument in bridging gaps and forging mutual understanding, respect, tolerance, reconciliation, and cooperation among peoples of different creeds and cultures.

Our firm advocacy is pursued in national, regional and international initiatives such as the Tripartite Forum on Interfaith Dialogue for Peace, the Ministerial Meeting on Interfaith Dialogue for Peace, UN resolutions on interfaith dialogue, the Asia Pacific Interfaith Dialogue and the Asia-Europe Meeting on Interfaith Dialogue, among others.

Recognizing the diversity of religions and cultures and guided by the principles and objectives of the NAM, we endeavor to prevent conflicts and find peaceful solutions to both local and international disputes.

The inextricable nexus between peace and development inspires us to engage in wider cooperation with participating countries as we work hand in hand to attain shared aspirations including the Millennium Development Goals.

I look forward to welcoming the Meeting participants to Manila in December and to move forward our collaboration, through interfaith dialogue, towards lasting and durable peace and development for all.