Mohamed Bin Zayed University Concludes Inaugural International Conference on Interfaith Dialogue

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities (MBZUH) has concluded its participation in the inaugural International Conference on Interfaith Dialogue held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from November 4-5, 2024. The summit, organized in collaboration with the Ethiopian Ministry of Peace and the Interfaith Council, brought together leaders from various religious backgrounds, ministers, ambassadors, and other dignitaries. The event served as a vital platform for promoting interfaith dialogue, with a focus on spreading the values of tolerance, peace, and citizenship, aligned with the UAE’s strategic direction.

The conference aimed to enhance understanding between different faiths, highlight the importance of tolerance and peace, and support the concept of comprehensive citizenship. These discussions were in line with the UAE's extensive experience in promoting coexistence and fostering cooperation among diverse cultures and beliefs.

One of the major announcements at the event was the launch of the Addis Ababa Document for Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace. This document, developed with the involvement of religious leaders, stands as a covenant of peace and is viewed as a pivotal step towards strengthening solidarity and promoting respect for religious diversity. It also emphasizes the fundamental need for interfaith dialogue, moral integrity, and the respect of different beliefs, making it a significant milestone for both Ethiopia and the global community.

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In addition to the launch of the document, a cooperation agreement was signed between MBZUH and the Ethiopian Ministry of Peace. This agreement reflects the university’s commitment to furthering scientific collaboration with Ethiopia and supporting regional initiatives focused on tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and mutual understanding.

His Excellency Taye Atski Selassie, the President of Ethiopia, praised the UAE’s efforts to foster global peace and tolerance. In his opening remarks, President Selassie acknowledged the UAE's ongoing initiatives to promote interfaith dialogue and its role in creating cultural bridges between nations. He also expressed his gratitude to MBZUH for its active support of cultural and scientific projects in Ethiopia.

During the opening session, His Excellency Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of MBZUH, delivered a speech emphasizing that the themes of the conference were in line with both the UAE's national vision and the university's mission to advance tolerance, coexistence, and peace. He underscored that the conference served as a crucial platform for encouraging interfaith dialogue and strengthening unity at both national and global levels.

Throughout the two-day conference, several activities were organized for university students, including an exhibition showcasing various projects and initiatives related to coexistence and tolerance. Ministries, institutions, and organizations from Asia, Africa, and Europe participated in this exhibition, reflecting the growing international interest in promoting the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Dr. Karima Al Mazrouei, an Associate Professor at MBZUH, also contributed to the conference by presenting "The UAE’s Strategic Model in Building Peace and Tolerance." In her presentation, she highlighted the UAE's approach to fostering peace and coexistence both domestically and internationally. Dr. Al Mazrouei urged participating nations to adopt similar strategies, leveraging education and cultural communication as tools for fostering mutual understanding and respect. She emphasized that the UAE views these values as essential to its ongoing development and progress.

The conference successfully brought together global leaders and experts, laying the groundwork for future cooperation in promoting interfaith understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence worldwide