Russia to Launch Muslim TV Channel

Russia will soon launch a Muslim television channel in the hope it will foster tolerance.

Proposed by President Dmitry Medvedev two years ago, the satellite channel will go on air in February or March across Russia, home to some 20 million Muslims, or a seventh of the country"s population.

"We believe it is necessary to cultivate a spirit of tolerance towards representatives of other faiths," RIA news agency quoted Russia"s chief Mufti Ravil Gaynutdin as saying, adding programs will be designed for a young audience.