The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam has affirmed that the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair represents a pioneering global event that embodies the message of the United Arab Emirates and its wise leadership under the presidency of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in supporting and nurturing thought, literature, and culture to enhance the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.
The Secretary-General stated that focusing the 32nd edition of the fair on the issue of sustainability as well as as climate and food security aligns with the UAE's declaration of 2023 as the "Year of Sustainability." It also comes at a time of global interest in finding effective solutions to climate change and in line with the significant efforts led by the UAE in this field, including hosting the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 28).
Judge Abdelsalam explained that the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, which is organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Center, also serves as a platform to celebrate and honor leading cultural and literary figures as well as the most influential figures in the history of thought and culture. He commended the choice of the 14th-century Arab philosopher Ibn Khaldun as the "principal figure" of this edition and shedding light on his efforts through historical, philosophical, and literary discussions focusing on his works and achievements.
The Secretary-General also emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders' participation, for the fifth consecutive time, participation will include over 165 publications in 5 different languages which address the various important intellectual issues, in addition to a number of activities and events that discuss dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, youth, peacebuilding, humanity, and environmental protection. This comes in line with the Council's message, led by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, which are aimed at promoting dialogue and spreading tolerance and peace globally as well as building bridges of cooperation with people of all backgrounds.
