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Israel Seeks Brotherhood and Peace
[Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs] President Shimon Peres - Israeli President Shimon Peres told the UN General Assembly meeting on the Culture of Peace on Wednesday: Religious belief requires that we recognize the eternal message that all men were created in God's image. Harming a human being is tantamount to harming God himself. When nuclear weapons, long-range missiles, indiscriminate terror and fanatical incitement determine the agenda, we have to change that agenda. After the First World War, Emir Feisal and Chaim Weizmann met in November 1919 to announce an understanding between their two peoples. Their declaration states: "Mindful of the racial kinship and ancient bonds existing between the Arabs and the Jewish people, and realizing that the surest means of working out the consummation of their national aspirations, is through the closest possible collaboration." The Arab peace initiative states that its goals are to: "consider the Arab-Israeli conflict ended, and enter into a peace agreement with Israel, and provide security for all the states in the region. Establish normal relations with Israel in the context of comprehensive peace. Stop the further shedding of blood, enabling the Arab countries and Israel to live in peace and good neighborliness, and provide future generations with security, stability and prosperity." These expressions are inspirational and promising - a serious opening for real progress. However, there are those in our region who sow hatred and try to widen the abyss and erect barriers, those who seek to wipe out other people and encourage killing. In order to stand up against those who instigate discord and violence, we must bear the flag of brotherhood and peace.