You appreciate the unique and vital role that education can play in promoting a spirit of inquiry, and in opening the minds of the young to new ideas and new visions of the future. As we meet today, I believe we are all conscious of the terrible consequences of failing to pursue the path of peace. Ever since the founding of the OIC more than 30 years ago, you have expressed your support for the Palestinian people. The past eight weeks have made abundantly clear to all sides that the cause of peace can only be damaged by excessive use of force, indiscriminate violence or terror. Violence only begets bitterness and resentment, which in turn begets further violence.
Feelings run high on both sides.
Mutual mistrust is deep. There are wounds in the families and communities concerned that may take a generation to heal. I can only imagine the anguish of the Palestinian people at their terrible losses in the recent violence. I feel special sorrow at the deaths and injuries of so many young people. I join you in sending my heartfelt condolences to every bereaved family.