ADIBF 2024 Seminar Spotlights UAE As Beacon Of Diversity And Coexistence

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2024) recently hosted a seminar that brought to light the United Arab Emirates' commitment to fostering diversity and coexistence. Titled "The United Arab Emirates as a Model of Diversity and Coexistence," the event featured prominent religious and cultural figures who discussed the nation's efforts in promoting tolerance, love, peace, and peaceful coexistence among its diverse population.

Among the speakers were Monsignor Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia; Dr. Zikrur Rahman, Founding Director of the India Arab Cultural Centre; Dr. Mahmoud Najah, Imam at the Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque; Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman of Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple; and His Grace Bishop Mesrob Sarikissian, Armenian Vicar of the United Arab Emirates. Each speaker brought a unique perspective on the UAE's role in encouraging a harmonious society.

Monsignor Paolo Martinelli highlighted the collaborative potential between different religions, citing the historic Document of Human Fraternity signed in the UAE as a significant milestone. Dr. Mahmoud Najah praised the UAE for integrating peaceful coexistence, acceptance, and tolerance into the fabric of its society, referring to the Document on Human Fraternity as a landmark in contemporary human history.

Dr. Zikrur Rahman lauded the UAE as a beacon of coexistence, peace, and happiness, expressing his gratitude for the nation's hospitality and commending the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for his efforts in promoting tolerance and diversity. Surender Singh Kandhari acknowledged the UAE's commitment to tolerance, mentioning the Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple as an example of religious harmony supported by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

His Grace Bishop Mesrob Sarikissian expressed his appreciation for being part of the seminar and noted the historical presence of tolerance, human fraternity, and diversity in the Emirates, championed by the late Sheikh Zayed.

The Muslim Council of Elders' participation in ADIBF 2024 includes over 220 publications in five languages and a series of seminars addressing dialogue, tolerance, peacebuilding, alongside activities designed for children. This engagement underscores the UAE's position as a model of diversity and coexistence. Religious leaders and cultural figures at the seminar commended the nation for its dedication to fostering an environment where tolerance, acceptance, and peace prevail. They also recognized the Document on Human Fraternity and Sheikh Zayed's pivotal role in shaping these values.

The seminar not only served as a platform for discussing the UAE's achievements in promoting coexistence but also reinforced its status as a global leader in fostering an inclusive society. The ongoing participation of the Muslim Council of Elders at ADIBF 2024 highlights their commitment to addressing key intellectual issues related to dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, youth, peacebuilding, and environmental concerns.

With inputs from WAM