Turkish, Chinese scholars call for tolerance in stemming violence

Turkish and Chinese scholars on Thursday broached tolerance as a means to stem violence and terror that are plaguing the world today, as was advocated by ancient sages.

Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi, a 13th century poet and mystic who died in 1273 in Konya, Turkey, and Confucius (551-479 BC), a Chinese educator and philosopher whose thoughts are echoed till today, were referred to together for their calls for tolerance.

"We have a lot to learn from them in avoiding violence and wars," Coskun Aral, a Turkish reporter and producer, told a seminar in Istanbul, where a number of Turkish and Chinese lecturers shared their ideas and suggestions.

The seminar was held to promote cultural exchanges and "bring the common points to the forefront," said Abdulkadir Tanridagli, chairman of the Turkish-Chinese Cultural Cooperation and Solidarity Association that hosted the event.

He cited ignorance as being behind the terror attacks that have hit Turkey and beyond, and regarded cultural exchanges as an effective way to promote better understanding among peoples.

Gu Jingqi, the Chinese consul general, while calling attention to the fact that the region is grappling with constant turmoil and conflicts, referred to tolerance, understanding and mutual respect as common points among different cultures that are "quite relevant" to today's world. Endit