An historic meeting between the city's Muslim and Jewish communities took place at Manchester Town Hall.

Rabbi Hershel Gluck and Ismael Amaan, the founders of the Muslim Jewish Forum in London, spoke to an audience of more than 100 people about the progress they have made in encouraging a dialogue between the two faith communities. Both the speakers stressed the importance of building upon the similarities and common ground shared by the two faiths despite the difficult international situation.

As a result of the meeting there are plans to develop the initiative further and to encourage greater female participation by having a women's branch of the same forum.

Councillor Afzal Khan, Manchester City Council's Lead Member on Race Issues, said, "Following the success of this first meeting, I hope even more people become involved in the initiative which aims to bring together the faith communities in Manchester by providing the opportunity for them to come together, network and continue a dialogue which will lead to a better understanding."