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NIWANO-PRIZE Feb-28-2008 (280 words) xxxi
Niwano foundation awards peace prize to Jordanian prince
By John Thavis
Catholic News Service
ROME (CNS) -- The Tokyo-based Niwano Peace Foundation has awarded its 2008 prize for religious contributions to peace to Jordanian Prince El Hassan bin Talal.
The prince has long been active in interreligious dialogue and epitomizes the moderate voice of Islam, the Niwano foundation said in a press release.
Prince Hassan also has a connection with Pope Benedict XVI. In 1999, the prince established the Geneva-based Foundation for Interreligious and Intercultural Research and Dialogue, and the future pope -- then Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger -- was one of its founding members.
Last year, the pope welcomed the prince at the Vatican and recalled their common commitment to improving interreligious and intercultural relations.
The Niwano Peace Foundation said Prince Hassan will receive the 2008 prize during a May 8 ceremony in Tokyo. In addition to a certificate and medal, the award includes a cash prize of 20 million yen, about $188,000.
"Prince Hassan has devoted his life to building peace with justice in the Middle East based on his understanding of human dignity informed and inspired by his faith," the Niwano statement said.
"He has been a bridge-builder across existing political and religious divides," it said.
The prince, 60, served as one of the closest political advisers to Jordan's King Hussein, who died in 1999.
The Niwano Peace Prize was established in 1983 to honor and encourage individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to interreligious understanding and cooperation, thus furthering the cause of world peace.
Each year the foundation solicits nominations from about 800 people in 125 countries. Nominations are screened by a panel of 12 religious leaders from all over the world.
END
Copyright (c) 2008 Catholic News Service/USCCB. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed.
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