Muslims told to trust each other

Muslims told to trust each other

JAKARTA (JP): With the General Session of the People's
Consultative Assembly (MPR) approaching, Muslim leaders and
ulemas are expected to overcome suspicions among themselves to
ensure its success, a leading figure said.

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) secretary-general Achmad Bagja, one of
the organizers of a gathering of religious figures, told Antara
on Friday that the meeting was aimed at increasing mutual
confidence, particularly in anticipating the General Session.

"There is a need for mutual trust among Islamic groups to
create a conducive atmosphere prior to the MPR session," Bagja
said.

The gathering of 350 Islamic leaders, which opened on
Thursday, will not endorse a presidential candidate.

The gathering was scheduled to feature chairman of the
Indonesian Ulemas Council (MUI) Ali Yafie and Minister of
Security and Defense Minister/Indonesian Military chief Gen.
Wiranto.

The ulemas are expected to issue a joint statement at the end
of the gathering on Saturday, with the document to be conveyed to
President B.J. Habibie. (edt)