ADDIS ABABA – President TayeAtseke-Selassie has called on Ethiopia’s diverse religious communities to embrace interfaith values to bridge social divides and tackle global challenges.
He made this statement here yesterday at the International Inter-Religious Conference, organized by the Ministry of Peace (MoP) in collaboration with Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, held under the theme: “Addis Ababa Declaration on Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace.”
In his keynote address, President Taye emphasized that in an era marked by extremism and hatred, religious leaders play a vital role in nation-building. He highlighted Ethiopia’s legacy of religious tolerance and stressed the importance of fully embracing the unifying potential of religion to foster social harmony.
Peace Minister Binalf Andualem echoed these sentiments, noting that narratives of tolerance and interfaith understanding are essential for creating a cohesive society. “Ethiopia, a tapestry of religious diversity, exemplifies the rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance of each tradition,” he stated. Binalf emphasized that religion plays a crucial role in shaping the values, identities, and behaviors of all societal segments, serving as a source of unity, strength, and resilience in the face of social divides.
Binalf added that by fostering a culture of tolerance, Ethiopia can build a resilient society where people of all faiths coexist and work together harmoniously, thereby supporting sustainable peace and prosperity. “Religious institutions hold a unique position as pillars of moral guidance, spiritual support, and community solidarity,” he stated, emphasizing the essential contributions of these organizations to Ethiopia’s social fabric.
Minister Binalf praised the support and expertise provided by Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities in promoting shared values of tolerance and compassion. He emphasized the importance of leveraging strengths and resources to address complex societal challenges and build resilient communities. During the conference, the MoP and Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration and foster peaceful coexistence in Ethiopia.
Chancellor Khalifa Mubarak Al Dhaheri of Mohamed Bin Zayed University emphasized that the initiative comes at a crucial time to promote religious engagement, respect for places of worship, and cross-cultural understanding to address pressing global challenges. “There is no peace without religion,” he said, calling for reinforced unity among religious leaders and a commitment to interfaith diversity.
He added that the Addis Ababa Declaration marks a new era for peace, tolerance, and cultural harmony, urging participants to champion diversity and cultivate wisdom that fosters sustainable global peace.
BY ASHENAFI ANIMUT
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 5 NOVEMBER 2024
