The Representative of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in the Palestinian Autonomous Territories, Felix Dane, opened the conference together with Prof. Sari Nusseibeh, president of Al-Quds University, and with Wasatia-founder Prof. Mohammad Dajani. More than 60 representatives of the three monotheistic religions and members of the International community assembled in the famous Notre Dame hotel in Jerusalem to discuss the role of Jerusalem in the peace process between Israelis and Palestinians.

Christian Berger, Representative of the European Commission, emphasized in his opening speech the ambiguity of religion in conflicts, as it often holds source and solution at the same time. On the basis of examples from European history he stressed how religious conflicts could be solved. Therefore he was confident that Jerusalem could become a place of peaceful coexistence of all religions. Dr. Yehuda Stolov, Executive Director of the Interfaith Encounter Association in Jerusalem, agreed on this assessment. Furthermore he emphasized that dialogue between the religions is the key to such a solution, whereas this does not occur adequately so far.

On the three subsequent panels high ranking academics and religious authorities from Islam, Judaism and Christianity discussed their Narratives on Jerusalem. Taking into account all differences evolving from the different views, finally all participants agreed that a solution to the Jerusalem question must originate in the religious concepts which call for peaceful coexistence. These would have to be divulged further among the religious communities.

Felix Dane, KAS-Representative in Ramallah, afterwards highly commended the positive dialogue atmosphere during the conference, which also led to an increased networking among participants.

The event took place in a framework of cooperation between the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, the German Development Service (DED) and Wasatia movement and will be followed by further trialogue projects.