Switzerland urged to reconsider minaret ban

CAIRO (AFP) - The Arab Parliament urged Switzerland on Tuesday to reconsider its decision to ban the building of minarets for fear it might fuel racism in Europe.
The decision reflects the sentiments of hatred and animosity towards Islam and Muslims felt by racist groups and extreme right-wing groups in Europe, the parliament said in a document adopted in Cairo after three days of talks.
We wish the people of Switzerland would reconsider this mistaken decision, which risks fuelling racism in Europe, Arab parliamentarians said.
Right now, we need to develop cooperation and constructive dialogue among believers of all religions, they said.
Last month, 57.5 percent of Swiss voters voted in favour of a proposal brought by the far-right to ban the construction of minarets on mosques.
The Arab parliament is an organ of the Arab League.