منتظم

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, commends the honorable stance of the United Arab Emirates towards the Palestinian cause and its rejection of the statements made by the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, calling for the UAE’s involvement in the civil administration of the Gaza Strip.

The Muslim Council of Elders reaffirms its full support for the brave stance of the United Arab Emirates, emphasizing that the Israeli occupation has no legitimate authority to take such a step and rejecting any plan aimed at providing cover for Israeli presence in the Gaza Strip.

Furthermore, the Muslim Council of Elders renews its call upon the international community to halt the brutal aggression on the Gaza Strip, prevent the Israeli occupation from invading Rafah, and uphold the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, welcomes the adoption of a draft resolution presented by the United Arab Emirates on behalf of the Arab Group, which received overwhelming support from 143 out of 193 countries, calls for the rightful membership of the State of Palestine in the United Nations General Assembly.

The Muslim Council of Elders emphasizes that the adoption of this resolution with such a vast majority constitutes international recognition of Palestine’s rightful full membership in the United Nations, urging the Security Council to fulfill its responsibilities and make a fair decision to restore the deprived rights of the Palestinian people which is necessary to enhance global peace efforts.

The Muslim Council of Elders renews its call to the international community to urgently work towards an immediate cessation of aggression in the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and injuries among innocent civilians, and to affirm the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.

The Moroccan Minister of Youth and Culture commends the Council’s efforts and publications for their role in promoting and spreading values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence

The pavilion of the Muslim Council of Elders at the Rabat International Book Fair warmly welcomed His Excellency Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, accompanied by a high-level delegation. This visit occurred on the opening day of the 29th edition of the fair, which kicked off today and will run until May 19 in Rabat, the capital of Morocco.

His Excellency Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid toured the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Rabat International Book Fair, commending the high-quality publications by Al Hokama Publishing that focus on Islamic and human thought. He expressed his appreciation for the significant efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders under the leadership of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, emphasizing that such efforts enhance knowledge, enrich human thought, and promote values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.

The Muslim Council of Elders features a dedicated pavilion at the Rabat International Book Fair, presenting over 220 publications in five languages. This includes 22 new titles that delve into significant intellectual and cultural issues. The pavilion is set to organize a series of cultural and dialogue sessions led by a distinguished panel of scholars, thinkers, writers, intellectuals, academics, and university professors. These discussions cover topics such as the management of verbal heritage in contemporary times, identity peace within the Muslim world, East-West interactions, the notion of peace during the early European Renaissance, and the future of publishing and translation in humanitarian fields.

The participation of the Muslim Council of Elders at the Rabat International Book Fair stems from its mission to promote peace, instill values of tolerance, and build bridges of communication and cooperation among people of diverse races and beliefs. Visitors are welcome to tour the pavilion at Pavilion C 18 in the Souissi district of Rabat.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating at the 29th International Publishing and Book Fair in the Moroccan capital Rabat which kicks off today and continues until May 19th. The Council continues its distinguished participations in international book fairs, with the aim of promoting and enhancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.

The Council’s participation in this year’s International Publishing and Book Fair in Rabat includes over 220 publications, including a collection of works in 5 languages. Among the notable publications are over 30 authored by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders which highlight the tolerance and richness of Islamic heritage, including titles such as; “Al Qawl Al Tayeb,” “From My Old Notebooks,” “Ahl Al-Sunnah wal-Jama’ah,” “Insights into Imam Al-Ash’ari’s Thought,” “A Discussion on Ailments and Objectives,” “Return to Faith,” “A Word to the Youth,” among others. It also includes the book “Basis of Understanding from Thought and Language” by His Eminence Dr. Mustapha Benhamza, member of the Higher Scientific Council of Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders and President of the Ulema Council of Oujda as well as “The Pope and the Grand Imam: A Thorny Path” by Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, and the book “Muslims at a Crossroads” by Dr. Mahmoud Hamdi Zakzouk.

Furthermore, the pavilion features a number of new releases by Al Hokama Publishing for the year 2024, including the book “The West and Rediscovery of Islam: Approaches to Islam in Contemporary Western Thought” by Professor Tijani Boulaouali, “Identarian Peace Management in the Muslim World: Concepts, Underpinnings, and Mechanisms” by a group of researchers, and “Conceptualizing Peace During the European Renaissance,” by Dr. Bennacer El Bouazzati.

As part of its efforts to address and tackle the most important intellectual, cultural, and Islamic issues, the Council’s pavilion will also host a number of seminars, dialogues, and discussions, with the participation of a select group of scholars, thinkers, writers, intellectuals, academics, and university professors. These sessions will address various topics including the service of the oral heritage in the modern age through the efforts of scientific institutions, identity peace in the Muslim world, exchanges between the East and the West, the concept of peace at the dawn of the European Renaissance, and issues of peace and how to understand them comprehensively. Additionally, there will be a discussion on the future of publishing and translation in the field of humanitarian issues.

The Muslim Council of Elders had recently concluded its participation in the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024, which took place from April 20 to May 5. The Council’s pavilion witnessed significant interest from exhibition visitors and received great interaction with its seminars as well as hosting a select group of intellectuals, thinkers, journalists, academics, religious leaders, and figures, along with participants from the Emerging Peacemakers Forum. 

The participation of the Muslim Council of Elders in the International Publishing and Book Fair in Rabat which hosts 743 publishers representing 48 countries with over 100,000 titles, covering various fields. This comes in line with the Council’s vision and mission aimed at promoting peace, establishing the values of tolerance, and building bridges of communication and cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. The Council’s pavilion is located at booth number C18 at the OLM Souissi site in Rabat.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, condemns the actions carried out by the Israeli occupation in the city of Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip.

The Muslim Council of Elders warns of the grave humanitarian consequences of the Israeli occupation’s control over the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, which serves as a lifeline and a safe passage for humanitarian aid, as well as for the evacuation of the wounded and sick for treatment. This situation threatens a humanitarian catastrophe that endangers the lives of innocent civilians.

The Muslim Council of Elders reiterates its call to the international community to take serious and tangible steps to halt the aggression against the Gaza Strip and support the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.

Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia: The Wisdom of Emirati Leadership Embodied in a Culture of Tolerance, Respect, and Coexistence Deeply Rooted in the Fabric of the State Since its Inception

Imam at the Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque in the Abrahamic Family House: The United Arab Emirates and its Wise Leadership Have Adopted Peaceful Coexistence, Acceptance of Others, and Tolerance as a Way of Life

Founding Director of the India Arab Cultural Centre: Since its Foundation, the UAE Has Uniquely Brought Together All Cultures and Religions in an Exceptional Achievement for the Islamic Nation in Our Modern Times

Chairman of Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple: The UAE Represents a Leading Global Destination for Values of Tolerance, Diversity, Pluralism, Acceptance, and Respect

Armenian Vicar of the United Arab Emirates: The UAE Has Become a Global Capital Where Different Civilizations Converge

The Muslim Council of Elders Pavilion at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair hosted a seminar titled “The United Arab Emirates as a Model of Diversity and Coexistence” featuring Monsignor Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia along with Dr. Zikrur Rahman, the Founding Director of the India Arab Cultural Centre as well as Dr. Mahmoud Najah, Imam at the Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque in the Abrahamic Family House alongside Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman of Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple in Dubai and His Grace Bishop Mesrob Sarikissian, Armenian Vicar of the United Arab Emirates. The seminar discussed the UAE as a leading global model in promoting values of tolerance, love, peace, and peaceful coexistence.

At the seminar’s beginning, Monsignor Paolo Martinelli, Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia said, “This simple meeting is enough to convince me that all different religions can work together under all circumstances and share our different opinions and experiences. I am honored to serve in a nation that hosted the historic signing of the Document of Human Fraternity between His Eminence the Grand Imam and His Holiness Pope Francis. The words mentioned within the Document of Human Fraternity is in fact experienced by everyone living in the UAE. The wisdom of the rulers of the UAE is encapsulated in the culture of tolerance, respect and coexistence present in the country today and since its inception. The differences between people are not an objection to unity, the most important thing is respect among people of different faiths and backgrounds.”

Dr. Mahmoud Najah, Imam at the Ahmed El-Tayeb Mosque in the Abrahamic Family House added, “The United Arab Emirates and its wise leadership have embraced peaceful coexistence, acceptance of others, and tolerance as integral components of life across Emirati society. This represents an authentic approach rooted in the Islamic faith, which recognizes that diversity is a divine decree. As Almighty Allah, stated: “And of His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your languages and your colors. Indeed, in that are signs for those of knowledge.” This underscores the significance of the Document on Human Fraternity, hailed as the most pivotal document in contemporary human history which was co-signed by eminent religious figures: His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, along with His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church. The event was held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and was a historic gathering, hosted in Abu Dhabi, which advocated for noble values such as peace, justice, and respect for freedom of belief, thought, and culture.”

For his part, Dr. Zikrur Rahman, the Founding Director of the India Arab Cultural Centre stated, “The United Arab Emirates is a symbol of coexistence, peace and happiness not only for the region but for the entire world. Since its inception, it has been a melting pot cultures and religions, which is a tremendous achievement for a Muslim nation in these times. My many meetings and encounters with the leadership and people of the United Arab Emirates have been filled with respect and admiration and I will forever be grateful to this nation for being such a hospitable and generous country. The Document on Human Fraternity as well as the Abrahamic Family House are legacies of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, which is continuing to be followed by the current leadership.”

Meanwhile, Surender Singh Kandhari, Chairman of Guru Nanak Darbar Sikh Temple in Dubai added, “I arrived in the UAE 48 years ago and I have never felt out of place since my very first day here, it has been a warm home for me and my community. The UAE has been a beacon of tolerance for the entire world as the only nation with a dedicated Ministry of Tolerance ensuring continued efforts in the fields of tolerance, coexistence and mutual understanding between people of different backgrounds. We are blessed to reside in this multi-faceted nation which was founded on a strong foundation of love and respect for everyone. I am proud to say that the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara (which was built with a grant from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE) is a world-famous landmark for Sikhs around the world, with over one million visitors each year.”

Finally, His Grace Bishop Mesrob Sarikissian, Armenian Vicar of the United Arab Emirates expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the Muslim Council of Elders for inviting him to participate in a seminar discussing the United Arab Emirates as a model of peaceful coexistence. He pointed out that the values of tolerance, human fraternity, and diversity have a historical presence in the Emirates since ancient times with churches such as the St. Peter and St. Paul’s Churches in Sir Bani Yas, and churches in the Emirate of Fujairah and other regions of the country. He also noted that the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was keen on promoting the values of diversity, acceptance of others, fraternity, equality, cooperation, mutual respect, and justice among the various segments of Emirati society. The wise leadership followed his approach by supporting laws, legislation, and all efforts aimed at promoting tolerance, cultural, and religious diversity. Consequently, he added that the UAE has become a global capital where different civilizations converge and its residents live while practicing their beliefs and religious rituals freely, with respect and peace.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair with over 220 publications in 5 different languages, including 22 new releases addressing key intellectual issues. Additionally, it is set to host a series of seminars focusing on topics such as dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, youth, peacebuilding, and the environment alongside a corner for Arabic calligraphy and several entertainment activities for children. The council’s pavilion is located in Hall 10, Pavilion 10 C17 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

Director General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM) Commends the UAE’s Leading Efforts in Promoting and Enhancing the Values of Fraternity and Human Coexistence

*Director General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM) Expresses Appreciation for the Pioneering Efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders in Confronting Hate Speech and Highlighting the True Image of Islam*

*Group Editorial Director at the International Media Investments (IMI): Aiming to Enhance the Role of Media in Confronting Extremist and Hate Speech and Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Acceptance of Others*

The Muslim Council of Elders Pavilion at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, in its 33rd edition, hosted a seminar titled ” Media and Promoting of Human Fraternity.” The seminar was presented by His Excellency Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi, Director General of the Emirates News Agency (WAM), and Abdou Gadallah, Group Editorial Director at International Media Investments (IMI). The seminar focused on mechanisms to activate the role of media and its institutions in countering hate speech, bigotry, and promoting peaceful coexistence. It emphasized the importance of building a capable generation equipped with awareness and correct thinking to confront malicious messages, ideologies, and extremist backgrounds.

At the beginning of the seminar, His Excellency Mohammed Jalal Al Rayssi praised the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in promoting peace, tolerance, and coexistence, and in building bridges of communication and dialogue among civilizations, peoples, and different cultures. He highlighted the UAE’s commitment to fostering values of human fraternity, tolerance, acceptance of diversity, and pluralism among its society, which includes more than 200 nationalities living in harmony and peace. He noted the UAE’s wise leadership and the establishment of legislation and laws to combat hate crimes and discrimination, as well as the creation of various specialized institutions and centers in this field.

The Director General of the Emirates News Agency, stressed the importance of establishing a connection and integration between media outlets, institutions, and leading organizations such as the Muslim Council of Elders and research centers to study the conditions of extremist and terrorist ideologies. This aims to reach a common vision for accurate media messages that promote values of coexistence, tolerance, acceptance of differences, and respect. He praised the Muslim Council of Elders’ initiative ” Twenty Values Charter: Media Code of Ethics for Human Fraternity” and called for the launch of numerous initiatives aimed at countering hate speech, promoting human coexistence, and training a generation capable of carrying the banner of tolerance, coexistence, and peace. He also emphasized the media’s responsibility in providing appropriate platforms to convey the voices of the wise and their message of tolerance, moderation, and noble values to various segments of society to build nations blessed with peace and stability.

For his part, Abdou Gadallah highlighted the importance of rallying around the values of tolerance and moderation and making efforts to build bridges of peace and common coexistence, and promoting a culture of dialogue and acceptance among different segments of society as the only way to eliminate terrorism and ensure a safe and prosperous future for future generations. He pointed out the significant responsibility that lies with the media in supporting global efforts aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and consolidating the values of human fraternity, especially in light of the world’s rapid transformations and conflicts. He called for the launch of media programs and projects and the expansion of the role of influencers on social media platforms to bring about the required positive change and counter the spread of hate speech and extremism, whether on television or social media platforms.

The Muslim Council of Elders had previously organized the ‘Arab Media Forum for Human Fraternity’ which coincided with the first anniversary of the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity, which led to the publishing of the “Twenty Values Charter: Media Code of Ethics for Human Fraternity.” The charter serves as a code of conduct, a professional and ethical covenant aimed at enhancing the role of media in promoting the values of human fraternity and is committed to ethical journalism, outlining fundamental principles for regulating professional practices in the media sector, focusing on the importance of the media’s role in promoting values of coexistence, tolerance, and human fraternity, and rejecting speeches of bigotry, hatred, extremism, and terrorism.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair with over 220 publications in 5 different languages, including 22 new releases addressing key intellectual issues. Additionally, it is set to host a series of seminars focusing on topics such as dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, youth, peacebuilding, and the environment alongside a corner for Arabic calligraphy and several entertainment activities for children. The council’s pavilion is located in Hall 10, Pavilion 10 C17 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).