The Sixth Global Forum: Global Conference of Human Fraternity
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Date: 03 February 2019 - 04 February 2019
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Location
: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and President of the Muslim Council of Elders, has long championed the principles of dialogue, tolerance, fraternity, and peace. He provided the world with a tangible example of these humanitarian values through the creation of the ‘Egyptian Family House’, which brings Muslims and Christians together under one banner to safeguard national unity. His Eminence’s unwavering advocacy for coexistence, tolerance, and fraternity has resonated across many countries.
Firm in his belief that religions exist to promote the well-being of all humanity, His Eminence asserts that global peace, which should be enjoyed by all, can only be realized through strong will, deep conviction in these universal principles, and a sincere commitment to shared responsibility on the part of all members of the human family.
During a visit by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and President of the Muslim Council of Elders, to the residence of his brother, Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church, the idea for the Document on Human Fraternity was born. It was during a gracious meal hosted by Pope Francis that a young attendee proposed the concept. The idea was warmly received by His Holiness Pope Francis and fully supported by His Eminence the Grand Imam. Following several in-depth discussions, they reflected on the state of the world, the plight of the dead, the poor, the destitute, widows, orphans, the oppressed and the fearful, as well as those fleeing their homes and countries and leaving their families behind. They were deeply absorbed in contemplating what divine religions could offer as a lifeline for these miserable souls.
As soon as the meeting concluded, they jointly announced the convening of the Global Conference of Human Fraternity, held on February 3 and 4, 2019, in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The conference was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, along with numerous religious leaders and a respected group of intellectual, cultural, and media figures from around the world. The aim was to create a common framework for collaboration among peace advocates worldwide, in pursuit of human fraternity.
One of the most significant outcomes of this conference was the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis. The document serves as a mutual declaration of sincere intentions, calling on all those who believe in God and in human fraternity to unite and work together to ensure that this document becomes a guide for future generations, fostering a culture of mutual respect.
The document has received widespread international acclaim and recognition, becoming one of the most important historical documents of the modern era. Signed by two of the most prominent religious leaders in the world, it represents a critical and practical step in strengthening human relations and building bridges of communication, harmony, and love among all human communities.
