Scotland's diversity of cultures and faiths is one our greatest sources of strength, First Minister Alex Salmond said yesterday.

Speaking at the launch of the fourth Scottish Inter Faith Week, an annual series of events with people of all faiths across Scotland building understanding and co-operation between religious communities, he said: "Scotland's diversity of cultures and faiths has always been a source of strength. Each wave of immigration has brought innovation and fresh ideas to our shores. It has enriched our arts, our culture and our language.

"The more diverse we are, the greater the need to find common ground becomes. We are also closing the door on the ignorant and bigoted attitudes that once threatened to drag us down.

"A global, inquisitive attitude, open to new influences and ideas, is the foundation of a modern, compassionate nation."

Events will include an Inter Faith Youth Conference in Glasgow on Sunday, and visits by religious leaders and Scottish politicians to places of worship other than their own.

The Scottish Inter Faith Council has launched Religion and Belief Matter, a document looking at the role of spirituality and religion in health. It is primarily aimed at professional health workers, in particular healthcare chaplains.

The Right Rev Bruce Cameron, former Primus of the Scottish Episcopal Church and former Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney, said: "Dialogue between faiths which recognises our differences but is done with honesty and love is the weapon that will best combat the extremism that many people fear."