خبریں

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, reaffirms its unwavering support for the Palestinian people’s right to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. The Council strongly rejects any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians or violate their inalienable rights, calling for an immediate end to such illegal practices that contravene international laws and conventions.

The Council urges the international community to take decisive action to revive a just and comprehensive peace process for the Palestinian cause, in accordance with international resolutions. It also calls for an end to the decades-long suffering of the Palestinian people, which has persisted for over 70 years, and demands the cessation of settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories, which threaten the security and stability of the entire region.

Furthermore, the Muslim Council of Elders emphasizes the urgent need to ensure the immediate, safe, and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid to innocent civilians in the Gaza Strip, who have endured devastating aggression for over 15 months. The Council also stresses the importance of maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza and safeguarding the lives of innocent civilians.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, strongly condemns recent statements by the Israeli occupation inciting against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and calling for the establishment of a Palestinian state on Saudi territory. These statements constitute a direct affront to Saudi sovereignty and a clear violation of international laws and conventions.

The Council expresses its full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the unified Arab stance rejecting such irresponsible attempts in their entirety, as they threaten the security and sovereignty of Arab nations. It calls on the international community to take decisive measures to put an end to the ongoing provocations by the Israeli occupation.

The Council reaffirms its steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s legitimate right to establish an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. It strongly opposes any attempts to displace Palestinians or infringe upon their inalienable rights. The Muslim Council of Elders also renews its call to the international community and international organizations to urgently act to stop the Israeli occupation’s violations and to work diligently toward ending the decades-long suffering of the Palestinian people, which has persisted for over 70 years.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Lahore International Book Fair hosted its third cultural seminar, titled “The Role of Faith Leaders in Protecting the Environment and Raising Awareness on Climate Change.” The seminar featured Mr. Qamar Iqbal, Head of Localization and Program Support at the Pak Mission Society (PMS), and Reverend Adnan, Head of Crosses and Crown Church Ministries, with Dr. Shan Masih, National Director of the Climatic Peace Foundation, moderating the discussion.

The seminar brought together a distinguished group of faith leaders and scholars to discuss the religious responsibility towards environmental and climate issues. Participants emphasized that climate change is a global challenge that transcends religion, sect, or region, calling for collective action among faith leaders, educational institutions, and community organizations to enhance awareness and work toward sustainable solutions.

Dr. Shan Masih opened the seminar by highlighting the pivotal role of faith leaders in raising community awareness on climate issues. He noted that various religions share principles that promote environmental preservation and sustainability, underlining the importance of interfaith collaboration to address the pressing environmental challenges of today. He also stressed the need for stronger partnerships between religious, scientific, and environmental institutions to ensure a more sustainable future for future generations.

For his part, Mr. Qamar Iqbal, Head of Localization and Program Support at the Pak Mission Society (PMS), stated: “Everyone has a responsibility to confront climate change, but faith leaders play a central role in guiding their communities toward adopting more sustainable practices. Engaging youth, as well as educational and religious institutions, in this cause has become an urgent necessity to ensure a better future for all.” He thanked the Muslim Council of Elders for its commitment to environmental and climate issues and its deep belief in the crucial role religions can play in preserving the environment.

Reverend Adnan, Head of Crosses and Crown Church Ministries, affirmed: “The universe is a creation entrusted to us, and it is our duty to protect it.” He called on religious communities across all faiths to take a more active role in fostering environmental awareness, whether in churches, mosques, or temples. He also praised the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders in amplifying the voice of religions on environmental issues and its global leadership in this area, reflecting a genuine commitment to tackling climate challenges from a religious and ethical perspective.

The seminar attracted significant interest from visitors to the Lahore International Book Fair, with lively engagement from attendees who commended the proactive role of the Muslim Council of Elders in fostering interfaith dialogue on environmental issues. Many participants expressed their desire to see more initiatives of this kind, especially in light of the increasing challenges posed by climate change to communities worldwide.

This seminar is part of the ongoing efforts of the Council to enhance the role of religions in addressing environmental and climate issues. The Council has launched several global initiatives to shed light on the religious responsibility towards the environment, including the organization of the Faith Pavilion at COP28 and COP29, the Global Summit of Religious Leaders for Climate in Abu Dhabi in 2023, and the issuance of the “Call of Conscience: The Abu Dhabi Interfaith Statement for Climate.” The Council also co-hosted the Religions for Peace Summit in Baku in 2024, which focused on advancing interfaith collaboration in tackling environmental and humanitarian challenges.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion will continue welcoming visitors at the Lahore International Book Fair until February 9 at Expo Center Lahore, Hall 1, Booth 1-6. The pavilion showcases a remarkable selection of books, intellectual publications, and initiatives aimed at promoting peace and coexistence, reflecting the Council’s pioneering role in uniting Islamic efforts and fostering greater understanding among Muslims of various intellectual and theological backgrounds.

The Muslim Council of Elders hosted its third and final seminar at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025, titled “Faith and Environment: Shared Responsibilities for a Sustainable Future.” The seminar drew a highly engaged audience, eager to explore the intersection of faith, civic responsibility, and environmental stewardship. In addition, it also fostered dynamic discussions, with the audience actively engaging in debates and reflections on the role of faith, history, and personal responsibility in combating environmental degradation.

The seminar, moderated by Prof. Dr. Zikrur Rahman, Founding Director of the India Arab Cultural Centre, featured distinguished speakers, including Prof. Dr. Shubhda Chaudhary, Assistant Professor at Delhi University and Founder of Middle East Insights; K. P. Fabian, Former Ambassador and Professor of International Relations at Mahatma Gandhi University; and Prof. Dr. Syed Irfan Habeeb, a prominent historian and intellectual.

Prof. Dr. Shubhda Chaudhary emphasized the deep-rooted connection between faith traditions and environmental consciousness. She noted, “Faith-based traditions across religions emphasize the interconnectedness between humanity and nature. Sustainability is not just an external obligation but an intrinsic value rooted in personal responsibility.” Dr. Chaudhary also highlighted the need for a feminist approach in faith-based learning, underscoring the pivotal role of women in ecological movements.

K. P. Fabian highlighted the enduring wisdom found in history and its relevance to contemporary environmental challenges and  to reignite genuine environmental commitment. He also noted that it is through learning from history and fostering global cooperation that we can create meaningful change.

Prof. Dr. Syed Irfan Habeeb stressed the importance of faith in humanity as a driving force for environmental action. “Environmental issues transcend religious identities. Our primary responsibility is to act as humans first, beyond the boundaries of faith.” He also noted the critical role of civic responsibility, arguing that personal accountability is essential for sustainable change.

This is set to be the Muslim Council of Elders’ third consecutive participation at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 which underscores its commitment to intellectual and cultural exchange, fostering dialogue, and promoting values of tolerance, peace, and coexistence. Through its diverse publications, translated works, and engaging discussions, the Council continues to bridge cultures and reinforce the importance of shared human values on the global stage. The Council’s pavilion (I-04) at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 is located in Hall 4 at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Lahore International Book Fair hosted its second cultural seminar, titled “The Efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders to Advance Intra-Islamic Dialogue.” The event featured prominent speakers, including the esteemed  scholar Lal Hussain Al-Tuwaheedi, Coordinator of Shia Institutes in Pakistan, and Professor Dr. Muhammad Abdullah, Director of the Sheikh Zayed Islamic Center at the University of Punjab – Lahore. The session was moderated by Dr. Arshad Al-Azhari, Director of the Muslim Council of Elders’ Office in Pakistan, and was attended by a large audience of fair visitors.

The seminar addressed the importance of Islamic unity in confronting the challenges facing the Muslim world. It emphasized the need to promote moderate religious education in schools and universities to protect young people from falling into sectarianism. Speakers called on governments and Islamic institutions to adopt educational programs that reinforce the values of unity, tolerance, and coexistence. They stressed that the Glorious Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) call for unity and solidarity among Muslims and that the many commonalities that bring them together should far outweigh the few differences that exist.

In his address, Lal Hussain Al-Tuwaheedi emphasized that the Muslim Ummah nation chieving unity by returning to the Glorious Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet. He highlighted Al-Azhar’s role as a leading institution in promoting global peace and fostering intra-Islamic dialogue. He noted that Al-Azhar is among the few institutions that teach all Islamic schools of thought, thus playing a crucial role in fostering understanding and dialogue among Muslims. He also pointed to the significant role of social media and urged young people to use it to spread a culture of peace and fraternity rather than focusing on divisions.

Dr. Muhammad Abdullah echoed this sentiment, calling for a re-evaluation of sectarian practices that divide Muslims and instead focusing on commonalities that unite the Muslim nation. He referenced the vision of the renowned scholar Muhammad Iqbal on Muslim unity, in which he likened Islam to a tree with a single trunk and multiple branches or a river that gives rise to different streams, illustrating that diversity in perspectives does not equate to division.

The seminar witnessed significant engagement from attendees, who participated in in-depth discussions on the importance of intra-Islamic dialogue and the crucial role of religious and educational institutions in fostering these values.

This seminar is part of the Muslim Council of Elders’ ongoing efforts to promote intra-Islamic dialogue. The Council is also organizing the “Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference: One Nation, A Shared Destiny”, scheduled to be held in Bahrain from February 18 to 19. This conference serves as an extension of the Council’s initiatives to enhance communication among different Islamic schools of thought and explore mechanisms for uniting efforts to address the common challenges facing the Muslim world.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the 2025 Lahore International Book Fair continues to attract a large number of visitors for the second consecutive day. It has welcomed many prominent academics and media figures, who have praised the Council’s valuable publications and pioneering initiatives in promoting dialogue and mutual understanding among different Islamic schools of thought. They also commended the Council’s leading role in spreading a culture of peace and coexistence among nations.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion will continue welcoming visitors at the Lahore International Book Fair until February 9 at Expo Center Lahore, Hall 1, Booth 1-6. The pavilion showcases a remarkable selection of books, intellectual publications, and initiatives aimed at promoting peace and coexistence, reflecting the Council’s pioneering role in uniting Islamic efforts and fostering greater understanding among Muslims of various intellectual and theological backgrounds.

The Muslim Council of Elders participated in the International Religious Freedom Summit, held in Washington, D.C., USA, from February 3 to 5. The summit featured the participation of U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance, along with hundreds of attendees from around the globe, including faith leaders, global institutions dedicated to advancing religious freedom, civil society organizations, human rights institutions, academics, researchers, and decision-makers.

During the summit, the Council’s delegation showcased its efforts in promoting peace and fostering the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence. They highlighted several inspiring initiatives and projects, including the historic Document on Human Fraternity, the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, the Faith Pavilion at COP28 and COP29, and efforts to advance the role of faith leaders in addressing global challenges. Additionally, they emphasized the Council’s commitment to promoting enlightened, moderate thought and countering all forms of intolerance, hatred, discrimination, and Islamophobia.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ participation in the fifth edition of the International Religious Freedom Summit aligns with its mission to build bridges with institutions dedicated to fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and criminalizing offenses against religious symbols and sanctities. The Council’s presence was well-received by attendees, many of whom visited its booth and praised its pioneering efforts and diverse initiatives aimed at fostering pluralism, diversity, and mutual respect.

As part of its engagement, the Council’s delegation held several high-level meetings with prominent international figures and institutions attending the summit. Additionally, they visited several Islamic centers and met with various religious leaders in the United States to enhance cooperation and coordinate joint efforts.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Lahore International Book Fair 2025 held its first seminar under the title “Celebrating the International Day of Human Fraternity: The Importance and Role of the Document on Human Fraternity in Promoting Interfaith Harmony.” The seminar featured participation from Prof. Dr. Saeed Ahmad Saeedi, Head of the Department of Islamic Studies at the University of Punjab, Lahore; Reverend Nadeem Kamran, the tenth Bishop of Lahore in the Anglican Church of Pakistan; Prof. Dr. Kalyan Singh, Professor of Punjabi Language at the Government College University, Lahore; and Mr. Arun Kumar, Coordinator of the Pakistan Hindu Council. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Mudassir, Head of the Department of Islamic Studies at Lahore College.

The discussion offered a holistic view of the critical role of fostering dialogue and tolerance among different religious groups, underscoring the need to integrate the principles of the Document on Human Fraternity into everyday practices to further global peace and stability.

Aroon Kumar, the Coordinator of the Pakistan Hindu Council, emphasized at the beginning of the seminar that all religions advocate for peaceful coexistence and respect for diversity. He pointed out that unity and human fraternity are solutions to global challenges such as climate change, extremism, poverty, and pandemics.

On his part, Bishop Nadeem Kamran expressed gratitude to the Muslim Council of Elders for providing an opportunity for representatives of different faiths to come together at the same table. He highlighted the crucial role of religious leaders in promoting values of coexistence and mutual respect. He stressed the need to disseminate the concept of human fraternity in all forums and to make every day a day of human fraternity. Without acceptance and respect for others, the aspired human fraternity cannot be achieved. He noted that the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by two global religious figures in Abu Dhabi in 2019 came at a time when the world desperately needs peace and security.

Prof. Dr. Kalyan Singh highlighted that the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Pope Francis in the UAE was a “gift to the world.” He emphasized that spreading the culture of human fraternity is key to ensuring a safe and stable future for generations to come. He also pointed out that the Indian subcontinent serves as a model of religious and cultural diversity, where different faiths and civilizations have coexisted peacefully for centuries.
 
Concluding the seminar, Prof. Dr. Saeed Ahmad Saeedi spoke about the significance of Islamic values in promoting human fraternity. He noted that Islam emphasizes the unity of humanity, interfaith coexistence, and the shared lineage of all people as descendants of Adam (peace be upon him). Citing the Charter of Medina as an early example of religious pluralism and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims, he stressed that achieving human fraternity requires respect for human dignity, adopting a compassionate and dialogue-based discourse, and fostering communication and understanding among followers of different religions and cultures. 

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the first time in the 2025 Lahore International Book Fair, taking place from February 5 to 9. The Council’s pavilion is located in Hall 1, Pavilion R1-6 at Expo Centre Lahore.

On the opening day of the Lahore International Book Fair 2025, the Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion saw an impressive influx of visitors right from the start, establishing itself as a key attraction for reading enthusiasts from diverse age groups and cultural backgrounds eager to learn about the Council’s pivotal role in fostering dialogue and tolerance among different faiths.

The Council’s participation was enthusiastically welcomed by distinguished leaders from the executive, academic, diplomatic, and media sectors. Prominent individuals, including Dr. Muhammad Saleem Baig, Chairman of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA); Mr. Rana Sanaullah, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs; and renowned Pakistani journalist Najam Sethi, all praised the Council’s vigorous efforts to promote peace and coexistence. They lauded the Council’s endeavors and its high-quality publications, underscoring the importance of its mission to cultivate a culture of tolerance within diverse communities.

The pavilion experienced significant interaction with the Council’s scholarly and research-focused publications that explore issues of peace and tolerance. It featured approximately 250 works in eight languages, including 12 Urdu publications dedicated to interfaith dialogue, human fraternity, and the challenges encountered by multicultural societies.

The opening seminar drew a large audience and initiated deep discussions on methods to enhance mutual understanding and the pivotal role that religious and cultural institutions play in advancing the values of peace and dialogue.

The first day wrapped up in a positive atmosphere with substantial attendance, signaling a clear interest in the Council’s role and intellectual offerings.
The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion will maintain its presence at the book fair, offering a series of intellectual seminars, panel discussions, and opportunities for direct engagement with visitors at Hall No. 1, Pavilion R1-6 in the Lahore Expo Center, until February 9, 2025.

The Muslim Council of Elders hosted a thought-provoking seminar titled “Document on Human Fraternity – A Basis of Tolerance and Coexistence” at its pavilion during the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025. Held in commemoration of the International Day of Human Fraternity, the seminar marked the 6th anniversary of the co-signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and His Holiness Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi. 

The seminar featured Goswami Sushil Maharaj Ji, National Convenor of the Indian Parliament of Religions alongside the Spiritual Researcher and Peace Activist, Giani Jaskirat Singh and Dr. Henna Praveen, Educator and Prominent Social Activist. 

Giani Jaskirat Singh emphasized that peace is a state of mind that should not be disturbed by external circumstances. He urged individuals to overcome fear, ego, and divisions, stating, “True wisdom lies in inner purity, not external differences. Humanity suffers when we focus on what divides us rather than the common values that unite us.” He further highlighted that misunderstanding, not reality, fuels fear and conflict and stressed the need for dispelling ignorance through knowledge and education.

Dr. Henna Praveen spoke about the necessity of fraternity in building a harmonious society, explaining that “Fraternity means standing together, supporting one another, and ensuring that living in society is a blessing, not a burden.” She emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving differences and noted that ego is a significant barrier to peace, as many conflicts arise from a lack of communication and understanding. She also shared insights on how educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping future generations, fostering inclusivity, and instilling values of coexistence.

Goswami Sushil Maharaj Ji underlined the importance of preserving history and cultural heritage as a means of fostering unity. He stated, “Violence in the name of religion is a universal sin. Every faith condemns it, and we must unite in rejecting it.” He further stressed that India’s diverse heritage has always embraced integration, and that elders must guide younger generations toward ethical living and mutual respect. He called for greater efforts in interfaith dialogue and collaboration, recognizing shared human values as the foundation of a peaceful society.

The event drew a large and engaged audience, including scholars, students, and professionals, all eager to participate in discussions on the principles of unity, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence. It also sparked deep engagement from the audience, with attendees actively participating in discussions on human fraternity, tolerance, and coexistence.

This is set to be the Muslim Council of Elders’ third consecutive participation at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 which underscores its commitment to intellectual and cultural exchange, fostering dialogue, and promoting values of tolerance, peace, and coexistence. Through its diverse publications, translated works, and engaging discussions, the Council continues to bridge cultures and reinforce the importance of shared human values on the global stage. The Council’s pavilion (I-04) at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2025 is located in Hall 4 at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Dr. Mohammed Abdel Malik, Vice President of Al-Azhar University, Praises Muslim Council of Elders’ Efforts in Promoting Moderation, Human Fraternity, and Peaceful Coexistence

The Muslim Council of Elders’ stand at the Cairo International Book Fair held its eighteenth cultural seminar, titled “Towards Sound Social Ethics.” The event featured Professor Dr. Mohammed Abdel Malik, Vice President of Al-Azhar University and a professor of Tafsir and Quranic Sciences, with Dr. Mohammed Jamal, a researcher at the Office for the Revival of Islamic Heritage at Al-Azhar Headquarters, serving as the moderator.

Dr. Abdel Malik opened the seminar by stressing that ethics are fundamental in Islam, underscoring the critical need to intertwine good conduct with devout worship in today’s society. He emphasized that a complete religion involves both adherence to God’s commands and the fulfillment of obligations towards fellow humans. Additionally, he highlighted that cultivating good character and managing behavior are central goals of Islamic worship.

Dr. Abdel Malik, Vice President of Al-Azhar University, emphasized that teaching children ethical behavior requires a collaborative effort, not limited to families alone but involving educational institutions and the media as well. He highlighted three effective upbringing strategies: observational learning, leading by example, and moral guidance, while cautioning against giving children unrestricted access to the digital world without supervision.

Dr. Abdel Malik also commended the Muslim Council of Elders for its role in promoting moderation, tolerance, Human fraternity, and coexistence through its seminars and publications at book fairs worldwide. He stressed how these efforts help forge a global community where people coexist as brothers in harmony rather than as adversaries. He specifically appreciated the Document on Human Fraternity, celebrated each year on February 4th.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating with a special stand at the 56th Cairo International Book Fair, from January 23 to February 5, 2025. The stand features a wide array of the Council’s distinguished publications, in addition to hosting a series of seminars, activities, and events focused on promoting the values of kindness, love, peace, and communal coexistence among all people.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ stand at the Cairo International Book Fair is located next to Al-Azhar Al-Sharif’s stand, in Heritage Hall (Hall No. 4), at the Egypt International Exhibition Center in the Fifth Settlement.