The Gulf Time Newspaper One of the finest business newspapers in the UAE brought to you by our professional writers and editors.
ABU DHABI / WAM
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, received Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb of Al-Azhar and The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.
The two religious figures are visiting the country to attend the sessions of interfaith dialogue on integration, religious freedom and flourishing societies, organised by the Muslim Council of Elders and with Christian leaders from the Anglican Communion. Held in Abu Dhabi, the two-day event is attended by a number of religious and cultural figures around the world.
The meeting was also attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, President of the Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies, Dr. Ali Al Nuaimi, Secretary-General of the Board of Trustees of the Muslims Council of Elders, Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Under-Secretary of the Crown Prince’s Court of Abu Dhabi, and a number of officials.
Sheikh Mohamed welcomed the two guests, wishing that their efforts would be crowned with success in service of tolerance, understanding and co-existence among different religions and sects to live in peace, security and tranquility.
He exchanged views with them on the core issues addressed by the dialogue to maximise the humanitarian and cultural affairs of nations and peoples.
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi stressed that justice, peace and the teachings of the religions are the demands of peoples. He stressed that the UAE, led by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan laid down the rules and principles that reinforce the UAE’s approach regarding the co-existence, tolerance, equality, and the rejection of extremism, violence, as well as discrimination and racism.
The path of security, stability, and development starts from reassurance of communities and upholding the noble human values of love, prosperity and tolerance, Sheikh Mohamed said.
He called on all to unite against the destructive and extremist ideas, and criminal acts undertaken by the terrorist organisations to defame the religions. This, he continued, will be attained through highlighting the noble principles and lofty values as well as justice, peace and co-existence.
Sheikh Mohamed referred to multiple challenges that require all to unite and overcome them, and to correct misconceptions about the messages of different religions.
He stressed that the UAE has always sought to strengthen the foundations of peace anytime and anywhere out of the belief that this can enhance development.
The two guests expressed their gratitude and sincere appreciation to the UAE, its leadership and people for the positive image reflected in the authentic community values. They also praised the state’s efforts to promote peace and co-operation among religions and peoples.