The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr George Carey, and his wife, Mrs Eileen Carey, were presented with the International Council of Christians and Jews Interfaith Gold Medallions in a ceremony at Lambeth Palace yesterday evening.

The Council's Patron, Sir Sigmund Sternberg said: "Dr Carey follows in a line of great leaders who have made a distinctive contribution to the strengthening and deepening of relations between Christians and Jews."

Expressing deep gratitude for the award, Dr. Carey said:

"Relations with other faiths have been an increasingly significant part of my ministry as Archbishop of Canterbury over the past ten years. It is important that we continue to deepen the dialogue in a spirit of openness and tolerance, respect and goodwill. By focussing on what we have in common we can help to overcome the division and distrust that characterise too much of the world's dealings."

The Archbishop also expressed gratitude for the recognition of the role played by his wife, Eileen, in supporting his ministry on interfaith matters.

The award to the Archbishop was presented by Sheikh Dr. Zaki Baddawi, Dean of the Muslim College in London. The award to Mrs Carey was presented by Sir Sigmund's wife, Lady Hazel Sternberg.