Ethiopian President Lauds UAE’s Role in Tolerance at First Interfaith Conference in Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, The Gulf Observer: Ethiopian President Taye Atski Selassie praised the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) commitment to fostering tolerance, citizenship, and global peace during the opening of the first International Conference on Interfaith Dialogue in Addis Ababa. Organized by the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Peace and the Interfaith Council, the two-day event on November 4-5 brought together ministers, ambassadors, and key religious leaders.
The conference is designed as a platform to promote interfaith understanding, advocate for the values of tolerance and peace, and reinforce inclusive citizenship. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s longstanding efforts to consolidate coexistence and build cultural bridges.
During his address, President Selassie highlighted the UAE’s influential role in advancing interfaith dialogue and the values of tolerance and coexistence globally. He expressed appreciation for the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities and its support for cultural and educational projects in Ethiopia.
Dr. Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of the university, reinforced the UAE’s vision of fostering tolerance and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that the conference reflects the university’s mission to support these values. Dr. Al Dhaheri noted that the event represents a significant platform for encouraging interfaith dialogue, national unity, and global peace.
A key milestone of the conference was the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities and the Ethiopian Ministry of Peace. This agreement reaffirms the university’s dedication to advancing scientific cooperation with Ethiopia and supporting initiatives that bolster tolerance and coexistence in the region.
The conference also introduced the “Addis Ababa Document for Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace.” Signed by religious leaders, this document stands as a covenant promoting peace, tolerance, and solidarity as a foundation for religious dialogue, respect for diverse beliefs, and the enhancement of citizenship values. The declaration is heralded as a historic contribution from Ethiopia to the global community, advancing interfaith understanding and dialogue.
Additional conference activities included exhibitions showcasing initiatives from Asia, Africa, and Europe, reflecting the international commitment to values of tolerance and coexistence. The exhibition also underscored the university’s dedication to building scientific and cultural communication among nations.
Dr. Karima Al Mazrouei, Advisor to the Chancellor, presented on “The UAE’s Strategic Model in Building Peace and Tolerance,” highlighting the UAE’s strategies for promoting coexistence both locally and globally. Dr. Al Mazrouei called on international participants to adopt similar approaches, emphasizing the transformative role of education and cultural communication in fostering mutual understanding and respect.
The event concluded with a strong emphasis on the collaborative efforts required to sustain peace and tolerance, marking a new chapter in Ethiopia’s role in promoting interfaith dialogue worldwide.
