Muslim Council of Elders discusses challenges of intra-Islamic dialogue at Baghdad International Book Fair

ABU DHABI: The Muslim Council of Elders' pavilion at the Baghdad International Book Fair organised a seminar titled "Intra-Islamic Dialogue and Shared Challenges" which was presented by Sheikh Dr. Mahmoud Abdulaziz Al-Ani, President of the Council of Iraqi Scholars, and His Eminence Dr. Jawad Al-Khoei, President of Dar Al-Ilm for Imam Al-Khoei, with Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research, moderating the discussion. The event was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Hassan Nazim, former Iraqi Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities and spokesperson for the Iraqi government, along with other Iraqi officials, scholars and intellectuals. Dr. Samir Boudinar stressed the urgent need to revive intra-Islamic dialogue within Arab and Islamic societies, given the significant challenges Muslims face globally in scientific, civilisational, moral, and identity-related matters, as well as in securing a prosperous future for the Ummah's children and future generations. This dial ogue, he noted, is essential for the Ummah to reclaim its historical and civilisational legacy. Sheikh Dr. Mahmoud Abdulaziz Al-Ani affirmed the importance of agreeing on clear, common definitions of terms to ensure productive discussions and avoid misinterpretation or deviation from the topic. He explained that differences in interpreting religious texts should be addressed through common ground that fosters understanding and communication. He emphasised that the primary focus of intra-Islamic dialogue should be on finding ways for cooperation to achieve development and build Islamic societies. Dr. Al-Khoei further emphasised that intra-Islamic dialogue plays a crucial role in combating extremism and unifying the Ummah in the face of challenges that threaten its existence. It helps preserve shared Islamic values across various sects and schools of Islamic thought and reinforces the connection to religious heritage. He underscored the urgent need for deep, inclusive discussions that result in unified stance s, stemming from a collective sense of responsibility toward all Islamic countries and toward this religion. The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the first time at the Baghdad International Book Fair, in line with its mission to promote peace, foster dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of coexistence among people of different races and beliefs. The pavilion showcases over 220 publications in five languages, including 24 new releases that address significant intellectual and cultural topics. Additionally, the pavilion is hosting a series of seminars and lectures featuring prominent thinkers, scholars, and academics to discuss ways to enhance dialogue and understanding among Islamic sects and to build bridges of communication, aiming for greater cooperation and unity among the various components of the Islamic nation. Source: Emirates News Agency