Putin warns against 'clash of civilisations'

MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin warned on Monday against a "clash of civilisations" caused by those seeking to divide Christians and Muslims.            

"People are trying to divide the world along ethnic and religious lines, trying to drive a wedge between Christians and Muslims", Putin said at religious summit here.       

"They are attempting to almost impose on the world a clash of civilisations", he added, warning of the "catastrophic consequences to which such a confrontation could lead".             

He called for dialogue between religions, denouncing the propaganda of extremist leaders "seeking to exploit religious feelings".             

Around 150 religious dignitaries, including a sizeable delegation from the Vatican, are in the Russian capital for a three-day summit until Wednesday to examine ways in which faith can help counter terrorism.