Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdo?an attended the commemoration ceremonies of the 736th death anniversary of Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi in Konya on Thursday.

He came together with many foreign guests including ambassadors of the European Union member countries.

Speaking at the dinner of the Konya Governor’s Office, Premier Erdo?an said that Rumi’s universal messages mean so much more than ever as the world passes through hard times.

Describing the developments following the Swiss minaret-ban referendum as worrisome, Erdo?an urged those holding referenda on the fundamental rights and freedoms to read and understand Rumi’s doctrine.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Abdullah Gül issued a message on the occasion of ceremonies held for Rumi’s Reunion with the Beloved.

The President said that anyone who understands Rumi’s messages would taste love, brotherhood and friendship based on goodwill.

He said as follows: “Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi paved a way towards love and peace, building bridges between the people’s hearts while working hard to discover the good and affection in people regardless of their beliefs, cultures and opinions.”