Muslim Council Of Elders And Archbishop Discuss Strengthening Interfaith Cooperation

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, recently met with His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I in Istanbul, Türkiye. Their discussion centred on enhancing cooperation to promote tolerance, coexistence, and interfaith dialogue.

Judge Abdelsalam praised Patriarch Bartholomew I's efforts in fostering interfaith dialogue, especially regarding climate change and combating hate. He appreciated His Holiness's work in spreading a culture of understanding and mutual respect. "This meeting reflects the spirit of cooperation and understanding between religions and cultures that the Muslim Council of Elders aims to establish," he stated.

Judge Abdelsalam reaffirmed the Council's commitment to collaborating with global partners to promote peace and counter extremism, hatred, racism, intolerance, and discrimination. He emphasised that true friendship among those dedicated to humanity can overcome challenges.

He referenced the global model of fraternal relations between His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, His Holiness Pope Francis, Patriarch Bartholomew I, and Archbishop Justin Welby. This collaboration has led to significant initiatives like the Human Fraternity Document in Abu Dhabi and the Emerging Peacemakers Forum.

His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I expressed appreciation for Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb's efforts in solidifying coexistence values and building bridges between religions. He acknowledged the active role played by the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting diversity, pluralism, acceptance, and respect for others.

Patriarch Bartholomew I emphasised the importance of joint efforts to deepen religious and cultural dialogue. He expressed eagerness to enhance cooperation with the Council to address common challenges hindering peace and stability in societies.

Acknowledging Achievements

During their meeting, Patriarch Bartholomew I congratulated the Council on its tenth anniversary. He acknowledged the significant steps taken by the Council in its first decade to promote tolerance, love, and fraternity among all people regardless of differences.

He expressed hopes for continued success and further achievements in collaboration with the Council in future endeavours.

The meeting underscored a shared commitment to fostering a culture of understanding and mutual respect across different faiths and cultures worldwide.

With inputs from WAM