Globalization a challenge, says Dr Tariq Ramadan

Courtesy: The Frontier Post, http://www.thefrontierpost.com/News.aspx?ncat=hn&nid=1191&ad=06-07-2008

ISLAMABAD (APP): Dr. Tariq Ramadan, Professor of Islamic Studies at the University of Oxford, UK said that Globalization is a challenge which can be turned into opportunities for the benefit of Islamic revival. It was stated while delivering a lecture on "Globalization and the Redefinition of Muslim Identity: Challenges and Opportunities" arranged by the Iqbal International institute for Research and Dialogue (IRD) an offshoot of the International Islamic University. Dr Manzoor Ahmed, Rector of the University chaired this session which was also addressed by Senator Khurshid Ahmed, Dr Zafar Ishaq Ansari, the acting President of the University and Dr. Mumtaz Ahmed, Executive Director of the IRD. Dr. Tariq Ramadan said that Globalization is an accepted international reality. It has its merits and demerits. He said it has created opportunities for close relationship between cultures and civilizations. It has also created opportunities for better interaction between followers of various religions. "Now it is up to religious people especially Muslims to use Globalization and its Opportunities for dissemination of their messages for better future of humanity at large", he said. Dr. Ramadan added that Muslim all over the world are facing tremendous challenges to their common and collective identity rather their individual existence. He said Living in an international environment is an art and it should be wisely utilized. Dr. Ramadan said that Muslims should not compromise over their religious principles. However, they should adopt policy of coexistence with other religions as confrontation harms spreading message of Islamic. It is very sad that anti-Islamic propagandists have forced Muslims to take refuge in defending their religions whereas Islam itself enjoys prove its truthfulness, he added. Dr. Tariq asked intelligence to build confidence, consistency, communication, contribution, creativity and contest to live in changed world situation. He made it clear that there should be no effort to change texts of the Holy Quran in changing scenarios. He also stressed upon the need of justice and equality in the Muslim societies to face the challenge of Globalization. Prof. Khurshid Ahmed said that Muslims should spread message of "Tauheed" and "Taqwa" to ensure a better living and bright future. He added that we must learn advantages and threats." Dr. Manzoor Ahmed, Rector IIUI in his speech said that we should use opportunities provided by globalization very cleverly for our interests and should not compromise on our principles.