Zamboanga (AsiaNews) - The death of Bin Laden has made no change to the relationship between Christians and Muslims in Mindanao. The situation is under control. The problems and risks are the same as a month ago.”, Fr Sebastiano D'Ambra (PIME) priest and founder of a missionary in Zamboanga Silsilah movement for interreligious dialogue tells AsiaNews. The priest said that some events have occurred in recent days against the killing of Osama Bin Laden, but the majority of Muslims are disinterested, preferring to continue dialogue.
Today in Zamboanga a meeting of the Inter Councillor Leader, a working group within Silsilah, was held. The group which meets every month includes the major Christian and Muslim leaders in the region. This month the meeting focused on the effects of the Arab spring in Mindanao.
"During the meeting - said Fr D'Ambra - Muslims were vocal in their criticism of the West’s handling of the war in Libya, which only has economic interests. " The theme is of concern to the Mindanao region, rich in gas deposits, especially in Muslim-majority provinces. However, Fr. D'Ambra, says that the Islamic leaders realize that Mindanao’s problems are not only caused by the West or Manila. "Many Muslim leaders have criticized the government of the autonomous Muslim region, which in recent years have seen many cases of corruption."
For over 20 years the Silsilah movement has promoted projects and initiatives such as Bishop - Ulama Forum and formation for young Christians and Muslims. The next will be held May 9 in Zamboanga celebrations for the 25th year of foundation of the movement.