Abu Dhabi: The Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, has urged world leaders and communities to prioritize the promotion of tolerance and coexistence. The council calls for a rejection of all forms of violence and conflict, which destabilize societies and deplete resources, posing significant threats to both current and future generations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Council emphasized that tolerance is not just an option but a crucial path to breaking the cycle of wars and conflicts affecting various regions globally. It is seen as a key to alleviating the suffering of innocent victims, the impoverished, and the marginalized. On the International Day for Tolerance, marked on November 16, the Council declared that tolerance is not merely an ethical choice but a human duty, essential for societal stability and progress. It is the foundation of genuine peace, capable of restoring balance to humanity while spreading compassion, justice, and
hope worldwide.
The Council highlighted that Islam is fundamentally a religion of peace and mercy, denouncing hatred and hostility. It consistently advocates for peaceful coexistence among people of diverse races, religions, and cultures, promoting principles of mutual respect and human connection. This is exemplified in the Quranic verse encouraging understanding among nations, underscoring the significance of building bridges of understanding.
The Muslim Council of Elders has initiated significant efforts to foster a culture of tolerance, coexistence, and acceptance. These efforts culminated in the launch of the Document on Human Fraternity, co-signed by Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb and Pope Francis in Abu Dhabi in 2019. The document calls on global leaders and policymakers to actively promote the values of tolerance and peace, urging immediate action to end violence, resolve global conflicts, and address critical issues such as climate change and cultural and moral decline.
