Senior Army officers meet with Islamic leaders in the East to discuss ethnic harmony

A team of senior Army officers met with a large group of Moulavis (Islamic leaders) in the East to highlight the importance of maintaining healthy relations with other communities without falling prey to extremists, the Army headquarters said today (May 11).

The visit by the Army officers spanned three-days and saw the participation of some 100 Moulavis, Divisional Secretaries, State officials, Education Department authorities and senior community leaders during meetings in the Trincomalee, Muttur, Kinniya, Batticaloa, Kattankudy and Eravur areas.

"Steps should be taken by all Muslims to prevent their young ones being lured into this vicious cycle of violence. Islam is a religion for peace and not for violence," Brigadier M. A Azad Izadeen, Director Rehabilitation, Bureau of Commissioner General Rehabilitation was quoted as saying during a meeting.

He had also observed that the actions of a few individuals had caused embarassment and tarnished the image of peace-loving Muslims who have lived in the country till todate.

Brigadier Izadeen was among the Army delegation which comprised Lieutenant Colonel Fawmi Kitchilan, Colonel A.S.M Fariz, Colonel Rauf Hameem and a few other officers.

The project has been launched by the Directorate of Psychological Operations at the Army Headquarters on the guidelines given by the Commander of the Army, is to be conducted elsewhere as well. Another similar interaction programme will be held in Dehiwala tomorrow. according to the Directorate of Psychological Operations.