Pope Francis has urged Muslim leaders around the globe to denounce terrorism being carried out in the name of Islam.
Pope Francis spoke as he was returning from a three day visit to Turkey, reported the BBC.
He said that he understood the harmful effects of the stereotype that linked Islam with terrorism.
He said that a global condemnation of the violence would help Muslims dispel the stereotype.
He also called for an end to the persecution of Christians in the Middle East.
Pope Francis also called for discussion with Muslims to counter fanaticism and fundamentalism when he visited Turkey.