'Dialogues pave way for peaceful future'

Abu Dhabi - The conference saw experts discuss harmonious cooperation and how it is built on respect and trust in the goodness in humanity.

The clerics and intellectual and cultural figures at the inter-religious meeting in the Capital have stressed the importance of dialogue in bridging differences between people to ensure a peaceful future.
The two-day Human Fraternity Conference at the Emirates Palace, which began on Sunday and coincided with the historic visit of Pope Francis to the UAE, saw experts discuss harmonious cooperation and how it is built on respect and trust in the goodness in humanity.
During the keynote speeches on Monday, the clerics and leaders highlighted the need for sustained efforts in building "real bridges of human communication", as well as the importance of dialogue in achieving cooperation among different religions, cultures and political backgrounds.
Irina Bokova, honorary president of the Alliance for Hope International and former director-general of Unesco, said: "All religions have been used by certain individuals to achieve their personal goals. But the quest for peace through dialogue should be the way forward."
"Conflicts begin when dialogue ceases. We need more talks to share our differences and similarities, be open to each other as this would bring about tolerance and foster love and harmony."
She said that since people of various cultures and religions live side by side nowadays, there is a need to accept and respect each other and take diversity as a strength.
Sheikh Mohammed Mukhtar Ould Ambala, head of Mauritania's Fatwa and Grievances Supreme Council, said God created all people as one to cooperate - and not to clash.
"Through these inter-religious meetings, we can explore the values of humanity and brotherly relations among mankind," he said.
"We all have a big role of delivering the message of peace, coexistence and harmony among people in our societies. Religious, cultural and community leaders are key enablers in disseminating the values of human fraternity."
Sheikh Ambala explained that fraternity is best measured by the strength of cooperation among all stakeholders, as well as their commitment to maintaining good will for the benefit of humanity.
"Establishing a culture of peace, reinforcing the concept of citizenship, and combating religious extremism are realistic starting points to achieving human fraternity," he said. "We cannot achieve human fraternity unless leaders are involved in promoting equality, tolerance and good morals for a peaceful world."
Professor Marco Impagliazzo, president of the Community of Sant'Egidio, said talks and peaceful dialogues between members of various religions should continue as the world looks forward to achieving universal tolerance.
"The act of dialogue involves openness, sharing differences and highlighting what's common. Dialogue is something that humanity should rely on to avoid conflicts and wars," he said.
Ensuring inclusivity
Bishop Hieromonk Grigory, head of the Patriarchal Council for contacts with Muslims in Russia, said: "True religion caters to the most oppressed and ensures inclusivity in the community.
"Everyone has a fundamental role in promoting these ideals and values of love, peace, sharing, giving, respect and tolerance."
He added: "We need to work together, and instead of politicising religion, we have to promote our shared values, combat extremism, encourage solidarity, reject discrimination, and uphold the principles of human rights and fraternity."
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Abu Dhabi