Bahrain is paving the way to spread shared values across Islamic sects and reinforce ethical principles in thought and behaviour to make coexistence, understanding and mutual respect unshakable pillars of Islamic unity, it was declared yesterday.
Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs president Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa also underscored the need for Muslim leaders, scholars and intellectuals to strengthen their collective bonds and work towards a brighter future for the Ummah (Islamic nation).
He was giving the opening address at the two-day Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference being held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
More than 400 influential Islamic scholars, religious leaders, intellectuals and policymakers from around the world are taking part in the conference held under the theme ‘One Nation ... One Destiny’.
Sixty-four nations are taking part along with 36 speakers in seven sessions and focus on five core issues.
Shaikh Abdulrahman, who is also chairman of the higher committee of the conference, reaffirmed Bahrain’s deep commitment to the conference’s noble mission of serving both the Islamic world and humanity at large.
“In the face of the challenges confronting the Muslim world today, it is imperative for leaders, scholars and intellectuals to unite their voices and efforts,” he stated.
“We must prioritise the well-being of the Muslim community in all its diversity and work together toward a future of harmony and progress through constructive dialogue and meaningful collaboration.”
Shaikh Abdulrahman highlighted Bahrain’s historical legacy as a centre of cultural exchange and peaceful coexistence, pointing to its unique geographical and strategic position that has shaped it into a thriving hub of civilisations, trade and dialogue.
He stressed that Bahrain’s diverse religious and ethnic fabric has been a source of strength, contributing significantly to the nation’s development and cultural richness. This spirit of inclusivity, he noted, is embedded in the country’s identity, allowing various communities to live in peace and contribute to the collective well-being of society.
Shaikh Abdulrahman also referenced the historic call made by the Grand Imam of Al Azhar Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, during the Bahrain Forum for Dialogue: East and West for Human Coexistence in November 2022, which set the stage for this groundbreaking conference aimed at strengthening Islamic solidarity.
He praised the vision of His Majesty King Hamad, whose personal commitment to interfaith and intra-Islamic dialogue has made Bahrain a natural host for such a vital discussion.
Shaikh Abdulrahman stressed the need for sustained dialogue and co-operation among Islamic nations and communities, urging leaders to build on the conference’s outcomes to forge a future of peace, stability, and progress for the Muslim world.
“Through constructive engagement and mutual understanding, we can ensure that unity, tolerance, and respect remain steadfast principles guiding our interactions,” he stated.
l Iran’s member of the Assembly of Experts for Leadership Ayatollah Shaikh Ahmed Moballeghi said Islamophobia is a creation of within, relying on inner division rather unity.
“This gathering, under this huge initiative, shows that inner unity can defuse inner Islamophobia and in return external Islamophobia,” he said.
“There are decisive measures that we need to take as a Muslim unit in the face of extremism, division and false messages.
“Islam is strong with us a unit and so its continuation as a pillar for peaceful engagement and dialogue.”
Also speaking on the opening day were the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation secretary-general Hissein Brahim Taha, secretary-general of the Office of the Grand Mufti of Oman Shaikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Siyabi, Kazakhstan’s Parliament’s Senate chairman and Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions secretariat head Dr Maulen Ashimbayev and Sanaa’s Al Alami Mosque imam and preacher Shaikh Yahya Hussein Al Dailami. Two evening sessions were held yesterday and four will be held today followed by the Manama Declaration.
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