Australia to have Islamic Museum within two years

The foundation of an Islamic Museum was laid in Melbourne on Feb. 17. Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary-General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Turkish Consul General Serdar Cengiz, politicians and representatives of nongovernmental organizations participated in the foundation-laying ceremony of the museum, which will cost $8 million. Ihsanoglu told Anatolia news agency that Islamic civilization had contributed to other civilizations, its art and culture was rich and diverse and that it was founded on the principles of tolerance and peace. He also said the museum would enhance Australia's understanding of Islam and help build bridges of communication. Ihsanoglu said the OIC thought the museum was very important and added that it would provide financial and cultural support through its organs at a later stage. The museum is expected to open in two years.