Madrid, 18 July (AKI) - A three-day conference on inter-religious dialogue closed on Friday with the 'Madrid Declaration which cited terrorism as a major obstacle to mutual understanding.

"Terrorism is a universal phenomenon that requires unified international efforts to combat it in a serious, responsible and just way. This demands an international agreement on defining terrorism, addressing its root causes and achieving justice and stability in the world," said the declaration.

"The Conference noted that terrorism is one of the most serious obstacles confronting dialogue and coexistence," read another part of the document.

The World Conference on Dialogue brought together representatives from the three main monotheistic faiths, Islam, Christianity and Judaism as well as Buddhism.

It was held under the patronage of Saudi King Abdullah Bin-Abd-al-Aziz al-Saud (photo).

The declaration rejected 'clash of civilisations' theories and backed the spread tolerance and understanding via dialogue.

The declaration also called on United Nations General Assembly to support the recommendations reached by the conference.

The conference brought together representatives from the three main monotheistic faiths, Islam, Christianity and Judaism as well as Buddhism.

It was held under the patronage of Saudi King Abdullah Bin-Abd-al-Aziz al-Saud (photo).

Among those who attended the summit were the secretary general of the World Jewish Congress, Michael Schneider, and Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, who heads dialogue between the Vatican and Muslims.

No Israeli was part of the conference.

Saudi officials chose Spain to host the inter-faith summit due to its symbolism as a place where Muslims, Christians and Jews have lived peacefully for over 500 years.