Baghdad, Feb.26 : On 24th Feb. 2004 leaders of two main Islamic factions could come together for talks here. Thanks to the efforts put up by the Anglican Church who acts as a mediator between Shiite, a majority Muslims who account for 59% of the Iraqi population and Sunni Muslims who make up another 36% of the population.

The Anglican Church leaders have been trying ways to find out how peace and harmony can be achieved between the two factions. After the fall of Saddam Hussein government, Shiites, though more in numbers than the Sunnis, were politically oppressed by the fallen regime; and they see it as a chance to take control of Iraq with their ideology and domination. This may lead to internal religious infighting and cause frictions and mistrust among the two factions as well as minorities in Iraq.

At this point of time, Iraqi Churches have a very crucial role to play. The gathering is seen as one such positive development in fulfilling the dream of the Church leaders in Iraq.

At this meeting "Baghdad Declaration of Religious Agreement" was duly signed. The accord urges cooperation among the religious factions so as to avoid frictions and untoward inter-religious conflicts and help protect various tribes and religions.

The agreement was signed by two members from the Provincial Governing Council - Muwaffak Al-Rabii and Nasir Kamal Al-Giadergi along with prominent leaders from Shiite Muslims, Sunni Muslims and Christians.

Christians have been seeking greater role in the government. This gathering will help shape up inter-religious understanding and unity.

The role of Islam in government will be voted into law by the end of February 2004 by the Governing Council. The discussion on the the Basic Law is currently going on, which will be the guiding force for liberated modern Iraq.