Abu Dhabi Leads Global Dialogue On Civilisations And Tolerance

At a critical juncture where global conflicts and misunderstandings are on the rise, the International Conference on Dialogue of Civilisations and Tolerance (IDCT) has emerged as a beacon of hope. Held from 20th to 22nd February at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the conference was inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence. This event, under the theme "Bridging Cultures, Nurturing Diversity," is a collaborative effort between the Emirates Scholar Research Centre (ESRC), the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC), and the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau.

With over 50 speakers and more than 2,000 participants from both the UAE and abroad, the conference aims to foster dialogue, promote tolerance, and encourage understanding across diverse cultures. Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the UAE's role as a model for peaceful coexistence and its commitment to combating prejudice and ignorance. He underscored the importance of dialogue in achieving progress and peace, stating that understanding and mutual respect are key to economic prosperity and social stability.

Miguel Ángel Moratinos, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and UNAOC High Representative, echoed these sentiments. He praised the UAE for its dedication to fostering tolerance and human fraternity. Major General Dr. Ahmed Naser Al Raisi, President of INTERPOL, also contributed to the discussions, emphasizing the significance of international cooperation in promoting peace.

Shaikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, Chairman of Emirates Fatwa Council and President of Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace, highlighted dialogue as a core value in Islamic and Arab culture. He stressed that Islam advocates for dialogue as a fundamental principle for communication with others. Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, lauded Abu Dhabi as a global beacon for moderation, coexistence, and human fraternity. He referenced the UAE's Principles of the 50 as a guideline for improving quality of life and ensuring that the values detailed in the Document on Human Fraternity endure across generations.

The IDCT Conference stands as a pivotal platform for exchanging ideas and experiences to overcome challenges through cooperation. It underscores the urgent need for global communities to come together in fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, and dialogue is prioritized. As Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan aptly noted, it is through understanding and respect that we can hope to achieve a world marked by peace and prosperity.

With inputs from WAM