In a gesture of unity and understanding, the United Arab Emirates Embassy in Paris brought together people of various faiths for a special Iftar dinner during the holy month of Ramadan. The event, held on April 19, 2023, transcended religious boundaries, fostering dialogue and celebrating the shared values of peaceful coexistence.
Her Excellency Hend Al Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to France, presided over the Iftar, welcoming guests from diverse backgrounds. Political and economic leaders mingled with representatives from Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and other religious communities present in France. This spirit of inclusivity resonated with the occasion, which coincided with the observance of both Christian Holy Week and Jewish Passover.
The Iftar served a dual purpose. It marked the breaking of the Ramadan fast, a cornerstone of Islamic practice during the holy month. But it also celebrated the inauguration of the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, a unique multi-faith complex dedicated to promoting interfaith dialogue.
"I was delighted to host this interfaith Iftar with guests of all religions and cultures," said Ambassador Al Otaiba. "This gathering embodies the openness and tolerance that are pillars of Emirati society, values that the Abrahamic Family House so beautifully represents."
The Ambassador emphasized the importance of fostering understanding in these "challenging times for our societies." She underscored the significance of dialogue, exposure, and mutual respect in building bridges between communities. The Abrahamic Family House, she explained, serves as a testament to the UAE's unwavering commitment to interfaith cooperation and peaceful coexistence.
The Iftar transcended a simple meal; it became a platform for fruitful discourse. The event featured a presentation by His Excellency Abdulla Al Shehhi, Project Director of the Abrahamic Family House. He elaborated on the House's mission to foster understanding and respect between different faiths.
The evening also included a panel discussion focused on the theme of peaceful religious coexistence. The discussion brought together esteemed figures representing Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, offering a unique perspective on the importance of interfaith dialogue.
The UAE Embassy's Iftar dinner served as a powerful symbol of hope and unity in a world often divided by religious tensions. By bringing together people of diverse backgrounds to celebrate shared values, the event served as a beacon of peace and understanding.