Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Executive General Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), the second biggest Moslem organization in Indonesia, KH Said Aqil Siraj said the world`s sufis will be meeting in Indonesia to discuss Islam and the virtues of teaching.

"We will hold a meeting of the world`s sufis and confirm that Islam in Indonesia is moderate and tolerant," Said Aqil stated after meeting President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono here on Monday.

He said that the meeting of world`s sufis is part of the 85th birth anniversary of NU.

He said the world meeting which will be held on July 16 will be attended by 43 Indonesian and 22 foreign sufi spiritual fraternities.

He said the sufis will come from Egypt, Syria, the US, Japan, Morocco, Turkey, and ASEAN member countries.

Said Aqil reaffirmed that the sufis will have an exchange of thoughts in the forum, emphasizing that Islam in Indonesia is moderate and tolerant.

Islam in Indonesia had always prioritizing peace and non-violence.

He also specifically expressed NU`s support to the Indonesian Unitary State, and reaffirmed that NU is always upholding the principles in Pancasila, namely Unity in Diversity (Bhinneka Tunggal Ika) and the 1945 Constitution.

The 85th birth anniversary of Nahdlatul Ulama which will also be attended by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, will be started by various activities, including a seminar on people`s economy, an exhibition, Said Aqil added. (*)

Editor: Aditia Maruli Radja
Copyright © ANTARA 2011