The Vienna-based King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) stressed the importance of respecting diversity, accepting pluralism, and correcting the perception of religious differences.
Noting that dialogue and understanding are the appropriate mediums for bridging the gaps of knowledge and building trust among followers of different religions and cultures, KAICIID pointed out to having a broad program that activates the role of individuals, leadersو and religious institutions to support policymakers, especially in international organizations.
Faisal bin Abdulrahman bin Muaammar, the secretary-general KAICIID, for his part, stressed the importance of the first Cairo Arab meeting on the opportunities and challenges of coexistence, and the importance of working together to consolidate coexistence, respect diversity, and accept pluralism under the umbrella of shared citizenship.
Bin Muaammar made the comments during his speech before the international meeting held in Cairo, on Tuesday, under the theme “Euro-Arab dialogue toward peaceful coexistence … opportunities and challenges.”
The meeting was organized by the Coptic Evangelical Social Services Organization in collaboration with Oikosnet Europe and Sigtuna. It aims to help exchange views and experiences between Europeans and Arabs, and to activate cooperation on issues that pose a real and tangible threat to the social fabric of various parts of the world.
Bin Muaammar underlined that the meeting was an important opportunity to support the programs of coexistence, peacebuilding, and communication in line with the center’s vision.
Speaking about KAICIID’s activities, Bin Muaammar said they help reinforce dialogue for peace and coexistence in five global regions: Europe, the Arab World, the Central African Republic, Nigeria, and Myanmar.
He reviewed the centre's efforts and successes in conducting dialogues with religious groups in the Central African Republic and contributing to national reconciliation.
