Muslims of Georgia unite against extremism

Muslim organisations throughout Georgia are banding together against religious extremism and violence.

Sixteen groups signed a document that disassociated themselves from the violence committed in the name of religion.

The declaration was assessed as "unique” as it was something the Sunnis and Shias mutually agreed on.

"We want to show the world that in Georgia, there have never been any controversies between the Muslim confessions,” Mufti of the Georgian Muslims Yasin Aliyev said.

"The signature of this declaration is a sign that we will still be together and live in Georgia to develop peace and Islamic religions.”

The leader of the Georgian Shias, Sheikh of All Georgia Ramin Igidov said by signing the declaration, they were saying no to violence.

Georgia’s State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Paata Zakareishvili said the harmonic life of the Islamic confessions in Georgia was unique in the world.

"Sunnis and Shias not only pray together here, but they also call on the world to stop the violence,” he said.

"Georgia is offering the modern world a really unique experience. This is a case when we can do our bit in the world civilization in the 21st century.”