The first seminar by the Muslim Council of Elders at the New Delhi World Book Fair took place at the Council’s stand at the largest book fair in Asia. The seminar was titled 'Strengthening Dialogue and Coexistence' by Professor Syed Irfan Habib, Historian and Author of Science and Political History and Father M. D. Thomas, Founder and Director of the Institute of Harmony and Peace.

During the seminar, Professor Syed Irfan Habib commended the Muslim Council of Elders under the Chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar for its efforts in promoting peace and coexistence particularly in terms of the historic signing of the Document on Human Fraternity alongside His Holiness Pope Francis. He urged the Council and other major international organizations to practically implement the values of the document on the grass-roots level to ensure every-day people are able to enjoy proper coexistence and harmony. 

Professor Habib also encouraged the audience, which consisted of many young students, to not fall prey to extremist ideologies that may take a toll on their national identities. He also called on people to understand and care about their respective identities as well as those of the people who they share their communities with. 

Meanwhile, Father M. D. Thomas noted the significance of the Document on Human Fraternity and the United Nations’ adoption of the 4th of February as the International Day of Human Fraternity as a possible inspiration for all humanity to unite under a single banner and overcome division and strife. He also encouraged nation states to raise awareness of other cultures and faiths through educational curricula and other initiatives which would discourage young people from being dragged into the darkness of hate and extremism.

The Founder and Director of the Institute of Harmony and Peace also praised the role of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders and His Holiness Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church in bringing the followers of their respective religious groups closer. He hoped that international governments can take inspiration from the efforts of the two religious leaders and build harmonious and peaceful societies for all to enjoy. 

This is set to be the Council’s first ever participation at the New Delhi World Book Fair, which is considered to be one of the prime literary events in Asia. The participation is part of His Eminence the Grand Imam’s vision of promoting dialogue and spreading tolerance and peace globally as well as building bridges of cooperation with people of all backgrounds.