The world spiritual and religious leader once said in a historic meeting with a catholic leader that the unity among the all divine religions has been vital for the advancement of mankind.
The great Imam made remarks during a meeting with special envoy of catholic leader John Paul II in Tehran.
Imam also said the Islam attaches great significance to the rights of all religious minorities.
The great leader of the Muslim world had frequently advised the church leader in Vatican to stand by the Iranian nation during their struggle against the Shah regime and its backers from colonial and arrogant powers.
The great figure noted that it was spiritual power of Islam that confronted all oppressive and brutal powers, and invited all followers and leaders of other religions to join him in struggle against world arrogance.
The Christian leader also thanked Imam for generating a meaningful dialogue with Christians and hoped for its continuation in future under the wise leadership of Imam Khomeini.
It is noteworthy that Imam also sought to bring all followers of divine religions and oppressed nations under the banner of monotheism. He wanted all humanity to work together for well being of their people and stand firmly against the aggressions and vicious purpose of colonial powers.
Imam Khomeini also announced to mark the birthday of the holy prophet of Islam Hadrat Mohammad (peace be upon him) in month of Rabi ul Awal on the Islamic calendar for one week and announced the historic week of unity for this purpose.
This period in which Muslims ponder on the fundamental call of unity was initiated by the leader of the Islamic Revolution, Imam Khomeini, following the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979.
Since its inception, the Islamic Unity Week has been marked annually, not only in Iran, but also throughout the world, and has played an important role in bringing the various Islamic Schools of Thought on a single platform.