Representatives from both religions had been meeting in Rome for several days to discuss the responsibilities of religious leaders during times of crisis.

Both sides concluded the meeting by releasing a joint communique, in which they agreed on four central points.

The first and foremost responsibility of religious leaders is of religious nature, keeping with the traditions of their respective faiths.

Second, religious leaders have a cultural and social role to play in promoting fundamental ethical values.

Third, religious leaders have special responsibilities toward the young, to keep them from falling under the influence of fanaticism and radicalism.

And finally, religious leaders should learn to prevent, cope with, or remedy crises of any nature, in order to avoid an outbreak of violence.

Both sides also agreed that the next colloquium will be held in Tripoli, Libya in 2010.