BRUSSELS, Sept 22 (KUNA) -- The Muslim Executive of Belgium, the main representative body of the Muslims, has expressed "great regret" over a recent decision by school authorities in the Flanders region to ban the wearing of the headscarf in 700 Flemish (Dutch speaking) schools.
The Executive in a statement criticised the "unilateral" way in which the decision was taken noting that some people are already calling into question the social and juridical legitimacy of the decision.
"Belgium is par excellence the country of compromises. Its authorities have therefore enough means indeed to find a conciliatory exit in this situation," it said.
"We remain persuaded that the coexistence between different cultures and religions is a wealth, and that dialogue is the best means to soothe down incomprehensions and mutual fears," it said.
The Executive called on all concerned actors for talks to find a solution to the problem and encouraged members of the Muslim community of Belgium to pursue democratic ways to express their points of view about the issue.
The headscarf ban had led to demonstrations in the city of Antwerp and one Muslim leader even called for separate schools for Muslim children in the Flanders region in northern Belgium.
The school authorities in Flanders argue that school girls are being forced by their parents to cover their heads. (end) nk.gta KUNA 221339 Sep 09NNNN