Global Leaders Gather to Advance Dialogue on Peace, Tolerance, and Coexistence
ABU DHABI, 6th February 2025 – Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the second edition of the Human Fraternity Majlis in Abu Dhabi, on Tuesday reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and global cooperation.
The event, organized by the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, in collaboration with key international and religious institutions, coincided with the International Day of Human Fraternity and marked the sixth anniversary of the historic Document on Human Fraternity, signed in 2019 by His Holiness Pope Francis and His Eminence Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb.
In his keynote address, Sheikh Nahyan praised the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose leadership has positioned the UAE as a global beacon of tolerance, coexistence, and peace.
“Under the wise leadership and guidance of the President, we are a country of peace and harmony – a country that promotes tolerance and fights intolerance – a country dedicated to achieving a peaceful, pluralistic global society,” Sheikh Nahyan stated.
The majlis, held at the Abrahamic Family House, brought together an esteemed gathering of world leaders, Nobel Prize laureates, policymakers, religious figures, and youth leaders from over 20 countries to discuss pressing global challenges to human fraternity and peaceful coexistence.
High-Level Global Participation
Among the distinguished speakers and attendees were:
- José Ramos-Horta, President of East Timor
- Professor Dr. Mohamed Al-Duweiny, Deputy of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif
- Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat
- Charles Michel, former President of the European Council
- Verónica del Socorro Alcocer García, First Lady of Colombia
- Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth
- Representatives of the Holy See and Al-Azhar
The event also highlighted the voices of youth leaders, including 13-year-old Ghaya Al-Ahbabi, UNICEF’s youngest youth advocate for COP28, who called for unity, stating:
“I stand before you, representing the young people of today, who will be the leaders of tomorrow. Let us stand together and show the world that no matter our differences, we are all part of the same human family.”
A Call for Unity and Cooperation
In his address, Sheikh Nahyan emphasized the growing challenges to human fraternity, including conflicts, economic disparities, cultural misunderstandings, and religious divisions. He called for renewed efforts to strengthen global cooperation, bridge divides, and uphold shared human values.
“We must recognize that our cultural, economic, political, and religious differences should be sources of mutual respect and understanding—not conflict,” he urged.
Echoing this sentiment, José Ramos-Horta, President of East Timor, underscored the need for collective responsibility:
“Promoting human fraternity requires all generations, nations, and sectors of society to unite in solidarity, listen with empathy, and engage in meaningful dialogue.”
The UAE: A Model for Human Fraternity
The event also highlighted the pivotal role of the UAE in advancing global tolerance and dialogue. Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, reaffirmed that the UAE, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, continues to serve as a pioneering model in promoting peace and coexistence.
“The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity carries forward the values of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose enduring humanitarian legacy continues to inspire generations,” he added.
Commitment to Action
Throughout the discussions, leaders stressed the importance of diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and youth empowerment in achieving lasting global peace.
- Patricia Scotland, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, emphasized the power of action: “It is incredibly important for those who believe in human fraternity to unite with determination. It is by our deeds that the world will know peace.”
- First Lady of Colombia, Verónica del Socorro Alcocer García, highlighted the role of compassion in building fraternity: “True human fraternity lies in unity, not division. Charity is not just material giving—it is listening and standing together.”
- Charles Michel, former President of the European Council, stressed the significance of cultural diplomacy: “To be fair and just, we must encourage active listening. Only then can we make well-informed decisions for a better future.”
Looking Ahead: A Shared Responsibility
The Human Fraternity Majlis concluded with a resounding call to action—to build stronger bridges between nations, faiths, and communities. The discussions underscored the ongoing commitment of the UAE and global leaders to foster understanding, dialogue, and peace as core principles of human fraternity.
With its continued role as the birthplace of the Document on Human Fraternity, the UAE remains at the forefront of efforts to promote unity and cooperation in an increasingly complex world.
As Sheikh Nahyan aptly put it:
“There is far more that binds us together than separates us. It is our shared responsibility to find common ground, prevent conflicts, and celebrate the progress that has been made towards a more peaceful world.”
The event served as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of peace, tolerance, and human fraternity is a responsibility shared by all nations and generations—one that requires unwavering dedication, collaboration, and hope for a brighter future.