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Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Participates in Launch of Groundbreaking International Document to Support the Protection of the Elderly and Preserve Their Dignity

In the first official activity of the Vatican under the leadership of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the Muslim Council of Elders, the Pontifical Academy for Life, and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) jointly launched a landmark charter dedicated to supporting and safeguarding the rights and dignity of older persons. The initiative reflects a unified vision rooted in the urgent need to intensify joint efforts in empowering older adults, affirming their right to independence and full participation in society, and protecting them from all forms of discrimination, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.

The document was signed by His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders; His Eminence Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, President of the Pontifical Academy for Life; and Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, President and CEO of AARP. It calls for enabling mechanisms that allow older persons to make informed choices for themselves and their families, and to have access to high-quality healthcare that is tailored to their individual needs and respects their personal preferences.

His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam stated that the charter seeks to promote care and respect for the elderly, recognizing them as the memory keepers of human societies and custodians of cultural identity and accumulated experience. He emphasized that passing on wisdom and knowledge across generations strengthens societal resilience in times of crisis and lays the foundation for a balanced future. He also affirmed that the Muslim Council of Elders—headquartered in Abu Dhabi—will work to actively support and advance the values and principles set forth in this significant document.

As the first initiative of its kind in the field of elder care, the charter highlights the critical role of families in supporting older persons and affirms the shared moral and social responsibility of institutions, governments, and communities to promote the long-term well-being and prosperity of all age groups. It calls on global leaders, international organizations, and civil society institutions to engage with and support national policymakers in adopting more effective policies and practices that enhance the welfare of aging populations and contribute to the dignity and well-being of all, especially the elderly.

The signatories agreed to work together to translate the charter’s values and principles into tangible action by advocating for a world where older persons can live with dignity and purpose. They committed to strengthening efforts that promote scientific research, public policy, and interventions that enable older adults to live longer, healthier lives; counter age-based discrimination in all its forms; and push for the adoption of binding international legislation to protect the rights and dignity of older persons. The signatories also proposed the establishment of a dedicated international body or agency to champion the objectives outlined in the charter and to lay the foundations for a global framework that ushers in a new era in which older persons everywhere can live with dignity in flourishing communities.

The Secretary-General also took part in a high-level global symposium at the Vatican titled “The Memory: Addressing the Opportunities and Challenges of an Aging Global Population,” held from May 9 to 10. The event explored the relationship between memory and human dignity and addressed both the opportunities and challenges posed by global population aging. The symposium gathered prominent international officials, global leaders, and senior religious figures from around the world.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, emphasized the urgent need to strengthen international efforts to promote the values of coexistence, tolerance, and peace. It called for an end to the wars and conflicts afflicting the world today and urged the adoption of a clear, united strategy to combat hate speech, violence, and Islamophobia—core challenges that must be addressed to ensure the progress and prosperity of nations and societies.

In a statement issued on the occasion of the International Day of Living Together in Peace, the Council affirmed that the teachings of Islam call for respect for others and the preservation of human dignity, regardless of race, color, or religion. God Almighty says: “O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may [get to] know one another” [Qur’an, 49: 13]. Promoting peace, the Council noted, is a deeply rooted Islamic principle—established as a foundational ethic of the Muslim Ummah and intimately tied to the spiritual and social fabric of Islamic life.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, stressed that the world today is in dire need of prioritizing reason, dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, and peace in the face of escalating wars, growing polarization, and the alarming rise in hate speech, fanaticism, and Islamophobia. He stated that on the International Day of Living Together in Peace, we must reaffirm our collective commitment to justice, coexistence, equality, and respect for diversity, recognizing human dignity as the cornerstone of all development and progress. Peace, he said, is the best and only path to building a promising future for the coming generations—one marked by dignity, stability, and free from sectarian, racial, or cultural divisions.

Since its inception, the Muslim Council of Elders has played a pivotal role in advancing the values of tolerance, fraternity, and mutual understanding among people of different faiths and cultures. The Council has launched impactful initiatives and led global conversations—most notably the East–West dialogues, culminating in the historic signing of the Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and the late Pope Francis, Former Pontiff of the Catholic Church. Among its other key programs are the “Emerging Peacemakers Forum,” the “Human Fraternity Fellowship Program,” and global Peace Convoys, which have traveled the world promoting mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. The Council has also organized numerous international conferences addressing critical issues related to global peace, coexistence, diversity, and the promotion of dialogue, peace, full citizenship, and human fraternity.

The Muslim Council of Elders participated in the G20 Interfaith Forum, held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, on May 13–14. The event coincided with the observance of World Interfaith Harmony Week.

The Council took part in the Forum’s Opening Plenary Session, titled “The African Union at the G20 Summit: The Role of Africa’s Faith Communities to Advance G20 Purposes in Africa.” During the session, Mr. Mohamed Bahr, Director of Strategic Planning at the Muslim Council of Elders, affirmed the Council’s belief in the vital and transformative role of faith communities in Africa in advancing both global and continental priorities. He highlighted the impact of trusted religious institutions in addressing poverty, inequality, and conflict, as well as the critical role of African faith leaders in areas such as food security, climate action, and migration.

Mr. Bahr also noted the Council’s efforts to advance peace in Africa and uphold the values of dialogue, coexistence, and peace through several key initiatives. These include the Peace Convoys, the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, and the practical implementation of the principles of the historic Document on Human Fraternity. He emphasized that the core values upheld by religious institutions—justice, compassion, care, and solidarity—align directly with the priorities of the G20, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

In the Forum’s third plenary session, titled “Sustainable Development in a World in Turmoil: Africa’s Contributions, Africa’s Needs,” the Council’s intervention focused on Africa’s contributions to sustainable development, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable financing, debt relief, and inclusive policies that empower women and youth. The Council called on faith leaders to pursue equitable solutions and collaborative responses to pressing humanitarian challenges. It also highlighted the Council’s initiatives aimed at enhancing the role of faith leaders in addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development.

Among these initiatives is the launch of the first-ever Faith Pavilion at COP28, which unified the voices of faith leaders in addressing the climate crisis. The Council also announced its new initiative, “Religions for Peace and Development,” reaffirming its commitment to interfaith collaboration as a means of fostering global resilience and prosperity.

The G20 Interfaith Forum in Addis Ababa was held in celebration of the African Union’s membership in the G20. The forum focused on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and South Africa’s G20 Presidency in 2025, through the contributions of Africa’s faith communities. The event brought together faith leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives to advance dialogue and develop actionable solutions for peace, sustainability, and social justice.

Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and Pope agree to continue the path of human fraternity

Grand Imam and Pope Leo XIV issue a joint call to end wars and conflicts, particularly in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb and Pope Leo XIV agree to collaborate in supporting the rights of the vulnerable, underprivileged, and oppressed

In a phone call between two of the world’s most prominent religious leaders on Wednesday, His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, congratulated His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as Head of the Catholic Church.

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, stated in a post on his official social media accounts that during a phone call today with his dear brother, Pope Leo XIV, he congratulated him on his election as Head of the Catholic Church.

He added that the pair affirmed the importance of continuing the path of dialogue and human fraternity to promote coexistence and global peace, while emphasizing the urgent need to work toward ending the wars and conflicts facing our world, particularly in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, and to support the rights of the vulnerable, underprivileged, and  oppressed.

In the first event hosted by the Vatican following the election of Pope Leo XIV, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders affirms: “We are confident in the continuation of the Human Fraternity journey. Pope Francis leaves behind a lasting legacy of compassion and noble humanitarian service.”

Secretary-General: Passing on wisdom and experience across generations strengthens societal resilience and lays the foundation for a balanced future.

His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, took part in the international symposium held at the Vatican from May 9–10, discussing the memory and its connection to human dignity—a symposium addressing the opportunities and challenges of an aging global population. The event brought together high-level officials, global thought leaders, and senior religious figures from around the world.

At the outset of his remarks during the opening session of the symposium, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders stated:
“With deep emotion, I stand before you today, recalling that we were invited to this symposium under the patronage of His Holiness Pope Francis—whose enduring memory continues to live in the hearts of all who knew him closely. I was, with all humility, one of them. His lasting impact remains etched in the conscience of everyone who witnessed his presence, actions, and noble humanitarian stances. We saw the depth of his faith in the values of genuine human life—not a life of pretense, but one of sincerity. He embodied this faith in a remarkable way, especially in his insistence on living naturally until the very end, without medical intervention, choosing instead to depart this life with spontaneity and dignity. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as Pontiff of the Catholic Church. We hold firm confidence in our continued journey of dialogue and fraternity with His Holiness, in pursuit of peace. Together, we shall persist in promoting the values of love, understanding, and mutual recognition, for the sake of a better world and a future where all may enjoy security, peace, and stability.”

His Excellency Judge Abdelsalam conveyed the support of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, for this significant initiative focused on protecting the dignity and well-being of the elderly. He emphasized that older adults represent the collective memory of societies—a living archive of identity, wisdom, and experience. Preserving this wisdom and transferring it across generations, the Secretary-General noted, enhances a society’s ability to withstand crises and build a stable and balanced future. He noted that recent studies show how involving the elderly in education and mentoring programs benefits not only their mental health but also offers younger generations valuable insight. Having grandparents in the household, he added, positively influences children’s health and success—a phenomenon now known academically as the “Grandmother Effect.”

His Excellency Judge Abdelsalam underscored that Islam honors human beings at every stage of life. As the Quran states: “Indeed, We have dignified the children of Adam…” (The Qur’an, 17:70). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) urged the honoring and reverence of the elderly, saying: “He is not one of us who shows no mercy to younger ones and does not acknowledge the honour due to our elders.” Adhering to such respect and veneration for older individuals is, in essence, a form of glorifying the Almighty— the Giver of life and the Source of all dignity. As the Prophet (peace be upon him) also said: “Glorifying Allah involves showing honour to a grey-haired Muslim…”

The Secretary-General further emphasized the importance of preserving this collective memory by giving special attention to the cognitive health of the elderly. He stressed the need to create environments that uphold their dignity and protect them—psychologically, economically, and physically—from neglect or discrimination. He also called for a renewed recognition of this stage of life as the crowning chapter of human experience—one that offers opportunities for continued contribution and the blessing of meaningful living.

In conclusion, His Excellency Judge Abdelsalam emphasized the importance of developing a clear and inclusive vision for elderly care—one rooted in the principles of intergenerational solidarity, justice, dignity, and respect. He affirmed that the future of our societies depends on our collective ability to address the challenges and embrace the opportunities presented by an aging population. He urged, “We must work together to build societies that preserve the place of the elderly in both our hearts and minds—societies that guarantee them a dignified life worthy of all they have given, and that care for the preservation of their memory, which is, in truth, the memory of humanity itself. This care must be grounded in clear principles: upholding their dignity, honoring their status, and treating them with kindness and compassion.”

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, along with the Council’s esteemed members and its Secretary-General, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on the occasion of his election as Head of the Catholic Church.

In a statement, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders said: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election as Head of the Catholic Church. We are confident in continuing the journey of dialogue and fraternity with His Holiness in pursuit of peace, and in working together to promote the values of love, understanding, and mutual acquaintance—for a better world and a future in which all enjoy security, peace, and stability.”

In recent years, the Muslim Council of Elders and the Vatican have collaborated on numerous joint initiatives and efforts, which have had a profound impact in advancing interfaith and intercultural dialogue. These efforts have affirmed the pivotal role of faith leaders in addressing global challenges and culminated in the signing of the historic Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019—widely recognized as one of the most important declarations in modern human history.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the America International Arabic Book, Culture, and Arts Expo 2025 has been honored with the Outstanding Partnership Award in recognition of its impactful contribution to promoting civilizational dialogue and showcasing Islamic cultural heritage. The event was held at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan, from May 1 to 4, 2025.

The organizers of the fair expressed their appreciation for the Council’s active participation, highlighting its significant role in enriching the Expo’s program and fostering unity among Dearborn’s diverse communities. They noted that the Council’s thought-provoking seminars, alongside its dynamic cultural pavilion, stood out as inspiring and memorable features of the event. In acknowledgment of these efforts, the pavilion was awarded the Outstanding Partnership Award.

The Council participated in the inaugural edition of Expo 2025 with more than 250 intellectual and cultural publications, as well as a series of panel discussions addressing key topics such as Islamophobia and the importance of intra-Islamic dialogue. This engagement aligns with the Council’s mission to promote peace and advance the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence.

Imam Mohammad Mardini, Director of the American Muslim Center in Dearborn: “We draw inspiration from the Call for the People of Qiblah to launch dialogue and coexistence initiatives in response to the sectarian rhetoric promoted by some media outlets.”

Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa, Kansas City-based researcher and member of the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism: “The Call for the People of Qiblah reminds us that our shared qiblah is a symbol of unity despite our differences, and that Allah intended this diversity to be a source of enrichment, not division.”

The Muslim Council of Elders hosted a pivotal seminar titled “Intra-Islamic Dialogue: A Reading of the Call for the People of Qiblah.” The event featured Imam Mohammad Mardini, Imam and Director of the American Muslim Center in Dearborn, and Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa, a Kansas City-based researcher and member of the Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism. Both speakers offered profound reflections on the urgent need to foster Islamic unity in the face of polarization and divisive rhetoric.

The seminar built on the outcomes of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference—organized by the Muslim Council of Elders in collaboration with Al-Azhar and the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in the Kingdom of Bahrain in February 2025. It highlighted the “Call for the People of Qiblah” as a charter for unity and solidarity among Islamic schools of thought, offering a constructive pathway for mutual understanding across the Muslim world.

In his remarks, Imam Mohammad Mardini emphasized that Dearborn stands as a living example of Islamic unity and a practical embodiment of the principles outlined in the Call for the People of Qiblah declaration. He stated: “In Dearborn, we embody the Call for the People of Qiblah by uniting Muslims from all backgrounds under one shared faith, as Allah commands in the Quran: ‘And hold fast to the rope of Allah, all of you, and do not be divided.’ For over four decades, we have built a community where all are welcomed in our mosques, without distinction. This charter has inspired us to confront the sectarian rhetoric promoted by some media platforms by launching dialogue-based initiatives and organizing joint religious activities that foster coexistence, reflect the true spirit of Islam, and offer a model that can inspire communities across the Muslim world.”

For his part, Imam Ahmad Sobhi Mustafa underscored the global relevance of the Call for the People of Qiblah declaration in countering extremism and fostering cooperation across diverse communities, particularly in culturally and ethnically pluralistic societies like the United States. He remarked: “The Call for the People of Qiblah, launched by His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, reminds us that our shared qiblah is a symbol of our unity, despite our differences. Allah intended diversity to be a source of enrichment, not division. Here in America—where stereotypes and political divides persist—we must engage one another directly, moving beyond preconceived perceptions. The charter calls on us to reject extremism and engage in dialogue, grounded in the Prophet’s saying: ‘Whoever prays our prayer, faces our qiblah in prayer, and eats our slaughtered animals is a Muslim.’ Through conferences and joint forums, we can present a unified image of Islam and fulfill our role in building bridges and countering all manifestations of division.”

The seminar also underscored the vital role of media and cultural exchange in promoting Islamic unity and encouraged grassroots initiatives inspired by the Call for the People of Qiblah charter. Participants called for the establishment of inclusive platforms and community initiatives that deepen shared awareness and strengthen bonds among Muslims.

This seminar was part of the Muslim Council of Elders’ participation in the inaugural edition of the America International Arabic Book Fair, held from May 1 to May 4, 2025, at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

Khalifa Khalid, a participant at the Emerging Peacemakers Forum: The Intra-Islamic Dialogue initiative, has created an unprecedented shift in fostering understanding among Islamic schools of thought

Meera Al Muhairi, a participant at the Emerging Peacemakers Forum: The EPF is a model to be emulated in promoting the values of human fraternity
 

 
As part of its cultural and intellectual activities at the 34th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a panel discussion entitled “Intra-Islamic Dialogue and the Contributions of Youth.” The discussion was led by Mr. Khalifa Khalid and Ms. Meera Al Muhairi from the Emerging Peacemakers Forum (EPF), an initiative launched by the Muslim Council of Elders.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Khalifa Khalid underscored the significance of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue initiative launched by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders. He described it as a historic and transformative step in strengthening dialogue and understanding among various Islamic sects and intellectual traditions, and in reinforcing a culture of coexistence in the face of division and conflict. He pointed out that the Grand Imam’s call came at a pivotal moment, during the Bahrain Dialogue Forum, and was embraced by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain, who recognized the historic importance of the initiative.

Mr. Khalid emphasized that youth are the driving force behind achieving the goals of the Document on Human Fraternity, which was signed by His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and His Holiness Pope Francis, former Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019. He affirmed, “We must start with the youth—they make up the majority in every society and possess the energy to effect change.” He noted two main areas of focus to achieve this: first, instilling a strong Islamic identity and core values among youth in the face of globalization and modern challenges; and second, building bridges of communication and mutual understanding, based on the principle that “the more we come to know the other, the more gracefully we learn to live beside them.”

For her part, Ms. Meera Al Muhairi shared her personal experience participating in the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, saying: “I was fortunate to be part of this forum, which impressed me with its diversity and depth. It prompted me to ask profound questions: Can the ideas of other faiths influence my own thinking? Can I benefit from them?” She added, “Together with a group of students at the University of Cambridge, we studied texts from the Qur’an, the Bible, and the Torah. It was a deeply enriching experience that deepened my love for Islam and made me realize that while the religious messages may differ, the essence of religion is one.”

Ms. Al Muhairi affirmed that the forum opened new horizons for her in terms of accepting others, coexistence, and tolerance. She praised the efforts of the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, describing it as a model to be emulated in this field, for its impactful programs and initiatives that foster a culture of dialogue and tolerance among the younger generations.

It is worth noting that the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including several of the Council’s latest releases for the year. These works address critical cultural and intellectual issues in line with the Council’s mission to promote peace and uphold the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence. The pavilion is located in Hall 10, Booth 10C35.

Her Excellency Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Education in the UAE: “The Muslim Council of Elders has prioritized the inclusion of women in its global programs, driven by the belief that building bridges of dialogue begins within the family.”

Ambassador Nabila Makram, Former Minister of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates: “Women are peacemakers, value-bearers, and bridges for the transmission of cultural traditions.”

As part of its cultural and intellectual program at the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion hosted a seminar titled “Women and the Building of a Generation Capable of Spreading the Values of Coexistence and Peace.” The session featured Her Excellency Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Education in the UAE, and Her Excellency Ambassador Nabila Makram, Former Minister of Immigration and Egyptian Expatriates. The event was attended by a distinguished group of intellectuals, researchers, and book fair visitors.

Opening the seminar, Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi emphasized that women play a foundational—not merely complementary—role in society. She described women as vital agents in instilling noble human values and nurturing generations capable of leading the future. She noted that the moral and intellectual challenges facing societies today require viewing tolerance and acceptance not just as ideals, but as existential necessities. Highlighting the pivotal role of mothers, she stressed that dialogue begins in the home, where wise women cultivate empathy, compassion, and openness in their children. Women, she noted, are the first institutions of dialogue—especially through the role of mothers in teaching active listening and respect for differing viewpoints.

Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi also praised the outstanding achievements of Emirati women across various sectors, made possible by the continuous support of the UAE’s wise leadership—from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace, to the present day. She highlighted that women currently comprise half of the Federal National Council, more than two-thirds of the public sector workforce, nearly 80% of the healthcare sector, and around 69% of university graduates.

She went on to commend the visionary leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Nation,” whose strategic initiatives have empowered women through comprehensive programs in education, training, and community development.

Sheikha Khulood Al Qassimi further noted the Muslim Council of Elders’ commitment to integrating women into its international initiatives, believing that sustainable dialogue starts within the family—with women at its heart. She referenced the Council’s recent launch of a global program dispatching female religious envoys to promote a moderate and inclusive Islamic discourse, while also supporting educational programs that incorporate values of tolerance into school curricula.

In her remarks, Ambassador Nabila Makram expressed deep appreciation for the role of women in advancing a culture of coexistence. She described women as the “helmet of society,” protecting it through the values they instill. Women, she said, are peacemakers, transmitters of values, and carriers of cultural heritage. She commended the contributions of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to the empowerment of women in the UAE and praised the “Emerging Peacemakers Forum” initiative launched by the Muslim Council of Elders. She also expressed pride in her participation in the signing ceremony of the Document on Human Fraternity, drawing attention to Article 10, which underscores the rights of women to education and employment.

Ambassador Makram expressed her appreciation for the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of His Eminence the Grand Imam and the Secretary-General, in hosting such a significant seminar. She also cautioned against identity erosion in today’s unregulated digital spaces, emphasizing the need to safeguard Arabic as a pillar of cultural identity. She shared her experience with the “Speak Arabic” initiative, which evolved from “Speak Egyptian” following the directive of His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi—highlighting the power of language in preserving national belonging. She also acknowledged the efforts of Her Excellency Mariam Al Kaabi, UAE Ambassador to Egypt, in championing community development.

Ambassador Makram called for a greater role for educational institutions in instilling the values of mutual respect and acceptance—especially amid the rise in hate speech and polarization. She also highlighted her engagement with Egypt’s National Alliance for Civil Development Work, a coalition comprising over 100,000 volunteers, including a significant number of women. She affirmed that women have consistently demonstrated strength, resilience, and unity in times of crisis. Ambassador Makram further praised Al-Azhar Observatory for its role in protecting children and youth from extremist ideologies, stressing that peaceful coexistence cannot be achieved without the active participation of women across all spheres of life.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair features more than 250 diverse intellectual and cultural publications, including a selection of the latest releases from Al-Hokama Publishing. These works address some of the most pressing intellectual and cultural issues of our time and reflect the Council’s mission to promote peace, foster dialogue, and instill the values of tolerance and human fraternity. The Council’s pavilion is located in Hall 10, booth 10C35.