The clash of civilisations is a prophesy that could come true unless there are sustained efforts to maintain dialogue, according to a top official of Konrad Adenauer Foundation, a leading German non-government organisation.

Dr Stefan Friedrich, its director for Asia, was in Bangkok last week to chair a meeting of its representatives in the region to discuss Islam and democracy. "We wanted to exchange views and learn from one another," he said.

Among the foundation's mandates is the need to enhance international co-operation and understanding. The foundation is named after Konrad Adenauer, West Germany's first post-war chancellor.

Friedrich stressed the importance of continued dialogue to prevent any misunderstanding over Islam. "If we do not have a dialogue there will be a clash. Democracy will help a country develop peacefully. This is the peaceful way. We want people to discuss and exchange ideas."

He was emphatic regarding the protests that have occurred since controversial cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed were published in a Danish newspaper. It and the other papers that published the cartoons have defended their action on grounds of freedom of the press.

"But we have to have freedom with responsibility," countered Friedrich. "You have to balance the responsibility. It is difficult [to draw] where the limits are."

Tolerance levels in each society are different. The issue should be settled within a country and without outside interference.

"The controversy over the cartoons highlighted the importance of people and authorities having discussions about Islamic-related issues," he said.

Friedrich said his foundation did not have one concept to apply to the entire region, but it had programmes based on local needs and suitability.

In Southeast Asia the foundation's programme focused on political dialogue, media and the rule of law. Friedrich noted in particular his organisation's support for Asia News Network, an alliance of 14 leading newspapers in 12 Asian countries, of which The Nation is a founding member.

"We support the network of journalism and press freedom and want to promote understanding with activities between European and Asian journalists."

He welcomed the rise of Asia in the international arena and expressed confidence in the positive role Asian countries can play in maintaining international peace and harmony.