This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Talks with Muslim community
01/02/2007
First Minister Jack McConnell today listened to the views and concerns of Scotland's Muslim community in a meeting at Bute House.
Community leaders from across the country gathered to discuss issues such as health, justice and the impact of high profile and global events here in Scotland.
It is believed to be the first time such a meeting for community leaders, Mosque representatives and Imams has been held with the First Minister at Bute House.
The meeting was suggested by Imams when the First Minister met faith representatives at a meeting of Scotland's religious leaders last September.
The First Minister said:
"This meeting was an important opportunity for myself and the Communities Minister to meet leaders from the Muslim community face to face.
"It was a chance to listen to their concerns and the issues that are most pressing for the Muslim community in modern Scotland.
"That obviously includes how high profile events around the world impact on community relations in this country. But more than that, how the operation of Scotland's justice and health systems meets their needs.
"It was an important occasion and I hope the meeting can have real benefits in helping to build the kind of tolerant and open country in which we all want to live."
Further meetings with the Justice and Health Ministers are now planned following today's meeting. The First Minister also plans to meet with young Muslims.