MADRID, Spain - Representatives of the world's religions on Friday ended a three-day interfaith conference called by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia which some hope could hail the beginning of a new relationship by denominations.
The Madrid meeting brought together Jews, Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and representatives of other religions in what was seen as an unprecedented event for the Saudi monarchy.
In a final declaration, participants urged the United Nations to play a role, saying they hope to follow up "recommendations in enhancing dialogue among the followers of religions, civilizations and cultures through conducting a special U.N. session on dialogue."
Saudi organizers skirted criticism that Israelis and Palestinians were not properly represented, arguing that all faiths had participants.
But the lone participant from Israel, Rabbi David Rosen, was upbeat.
"There have been interfaith conferences before but never by the king of Saudi Arabia," said Rosen, who is head of inter-religious relations at the American Jewish Committee and former chief rabbi of Ireland.
"It's never had the World Muslim League before. It represents the conservative heartland of the most rigid Islamic world view. This is an incredible advancement," he told The Associated Press.
Rosen said he was conveniently listed as an American for the conference owing to his dual nationality, but that he was optimistic that the absence of Israelis and Palestinians indicated the Saudis wanted to at least get the ball rolling on dialogue and that in future conferences they might be invited.
"The Saudis have gone very cautiously by not having the conference first of all in Saudi Arabia and making sure the first conference goes off without any major hitches," said Rosen.
Abdullah Abdul Mohsin Al-Turki, secretary general of the World Muslim League which the Saudi king called on to organize the conference, said although there would be further meetings on interfaith dialogue there were no plans to follow up the Madrid event with one in Saudi Arabia.
Dr. William Baker, president of the U.S. group Christians and Muslims for Peace, concurred that the real significance of the meeting was that "it originated in the heart of Islam."
"This could not come at a better time for the whole world and peace, and it could not have come from a better place as Islam is being propagandized against, lied about and distorted in the West for political purposes," said Baker.
Saudi Arabia had presented the conference as a strictly religious initiative