The Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his appreciation for the efforts of His Eminence Prof. Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb in solidifying the values of coexistence and human fraternity, building bridges of communication and understanding between religions. He emphasized the importance of joint efforts to deepen religious and cultural dialogue and expressed his eagerness to enhance cooperation with the council to address the common challenges that hinder peace and stability in societies.
Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam praised the role of His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I in promoting interfaith dialogue, particularly concerning climate change and combating hate. He expressed his appreciation for His Holiness’s efforts in spreading a culture of understanding and mutual respect. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to working with all active parties worldwide to promote peace and counter all forms of extremism, hatred, racism, intolerance, and discrimination.
Judge Abdelsalam also highlighted that true friendship, especially among those dedicated to humanity and striving for genuine peace, can overcome challenges and obstacles. He referenced the global model of fraternal relations between His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, and the Archbishop of Canterbury Dr Justin Welby.
Among the fruits of these efforts are the Human Fraternity Document in Abu Dhabi, considered the most significant in modern human history, as well as the Emerging Peacemakers Forum, which was held at the World Council of Churches Ecumenical Institute at Bossey, in July 2023.
During the meeting, His All-Holiness congratulated the council on its tenth anniversary, acknowledging the significant steps it has taken in its first decade to promote the spirit of tolerance, love, and fraternity among all people, regardless of their differences and diversity. He expressed his hopes for continued success and further achievements in collaboration with the council in the coming period.
