13 September 2010
The Federal President of Austria, Heinz Fischer, has told representatives of the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGiÖ), including the president Anas Schakfeh, to try and keep a “cool head” when confronted with Islamophobia. Fischer also stated his support for the democratic procedures of the IGGiÖ, and the he would not interfere. Fischer’s advice came during an evening dedicated to celebrating the end of Ramadan, a yearly event since Fischer entered office.
Schakfeh responded that “we consider this message true – we will not let ourselves be provoked.” He also reasserted the IGGiÖ’s commitment to the basic principles of the republic, though he said that some may not want to believe it.
