ISLAM-CHRISTIAN DIALOGUE

76 HOWTOMODERNIZE THEARABWORLD BOCCONI UNIVERSITY In the name of God: war or peace? The answer to the question I was asked: How can we modernize the Arab world? Its answer would require a dedicated de- bate. I will try to synthesize. The action could be directed towards several ways: In Europe: • towards Muslim preachers • towards the Muslims immigrants in Italy • towards Europeans: • towards the Institutions In Arab countries: • Women and human development • politically • at the level of international organisa- tions • By taking advantage of their thousand-ye- ar experience of the Arab Christians. In Europe: 1. towards Muslim preachers For an answer it is necessary to ask the Imams (those who lead the prayer in the mosques), especially those not born in Italy, to show clearly their wil- lingness to integrate and their loyalty to the society in which they live, otherwise they remain in a dangerous ambiguity. On this point a serious and constructive dialogue is advisable in order to increa- se awareness of the issues that Muslim immigration poses. The dialogue must address the integration of Muslims into the fabric of European societies that are so radically different from Islam in terms of mentality, customs and values and the possibility of a civil and pea- ceful coexistence between Italians and Muslims. Especially because behind Islamic immigration there are often Islamic states that intend to use it for political-religious interests. 2. towards the Muslims immigrants in Italy "We must ensure that Muslims are able to clarify and grasp the meaning and value of the distinction between religion and society, faith and civilization, politi- cal Islam and Muslim faith, showing that the demands of personal and communi- ty religiosity can be lived in a democra- tic and secular society where religious pluralism is respected and a climate of mutual respect, acceptance and dialo- gue is established". (Card. Martini- Us and Islam") "The relationship between Islam and Christianity in the Middle East indicates some critical issues related to the issue of cultural and religious minorities, is- sues of great importance also for under- standing and managing the presence of Muslims in European countries". (Agnelli Foundation). 4. towards the institutions It is crucial to bring our attention to coexi- stence issue within our cities, so that the poorest and most marginalized groups do not turn differences into violence. Once there is the will to realize this dream, it will be necessary to create a task force to develop the strategies to adopt and study and the measures to be taken.