Astana: The United Arab Emirates actively participated in the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions held in Astana, Kazakhstan. Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, contributed to the special session focused on protecting religious sites, aligning with the congress's theme 'Dialogue of Religions: Synergy for a Better Future.'
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Al Darei highlighted the UAE's dedication to safeguarding places of worship for various religions, sects, and cultures both domestically and internationally. This commitment reflects values of peaceful coexistence and enhances interfaith cooperation. He emphasized that the UAE's leadership has consistently supported freedom of religious practice and opposed discrimination based on religion, a principle rooted in the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Dr. Al Darei also mentioned the UAE's participation in the official opening ceremony of several cultural and heritage sites in Mosul on 2nd September. These sites were reconstructed with UAE funding in collaboration with UNESCO and the European Union. Since joining the 'Revive the Spirit of Mosul' initiative through an agreement with Iraq and UNESCO, the UAE has been devoted to restoring the Great Mosque of Al-Nuri, its Al-Hadba Minaret, and the Al-Tahera and Al-Sa'aa churches.