Bahrain to Host Historic Islamic Dialogue Conference Under Royal Patronage

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and in the presence of His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, Manama  Shaikh Ahmed El-Tayeb is set to host the Islamic-Islamic Dialogue Conference on February 19 and 20. The landmark event, themed "One Nation, Common Destiny," is organized by Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Bahrain, and the Muslim Council of Elders.

Bringing together over 400 Islamic scholars, leaders, intellectuals, and thinkers from across the globe, the conference aims to foster unity within the Muslim world and address shared challenges through meaningful dialogue. It serves as a direct response to the call made by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif during the Bahrain Dialogue Forum in November 2022, emphasizing the need to enhance Islamic discourse and promote Muslim unity.

Promoting Unity and Addressing Common Challenges

The conference aspires to move beyond reconciliation efforts and establish a structured mechanism for sustained intellectual and religious discourse across the Muslim world. Its objectives include:

• Strengthening Islamic unity by identifying common ground among different sects.

• Encouraging dialogue to counter division, sectarianism, and hate speech.

• Enhancing the role of religious scholars in bridging gaps between different Islamic schools of thought.

• Renewing Islamic thought to address modern-day challenges and conflicts.

• Showcasing successful models of unity and coexistence within the Islamic community.

Leadership Support and Vision

His Excellency Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa, President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Committee of the Conference, emphasized that the patronage of His Majesty the King reflects Bahrain’s longstanding commitment to fostering unity, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence among Muslims. He praised the unwavering support provided by the Government of Bahrain, under the leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in ensuring the success of this significant event.

Shaikh Abdulrahman highlighted the conference as a pioneering global platform that will bring together top scholars, religious authorities, and policymakers to establish constructive dialogue and develop unified perspectives on pressing issues facing the Muslim world.

A Step Towards Sustainable Dialogue

His Eminence Professor Dr. Mohamed El-Duwini, Undersecretary of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, underscored the significance of the conference in addressing sectarian conflicts and theological tensions that undermine the unity of the Muslim nation. He reiterated that Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, under the leadership of the Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, remains dedicated to fostering intra-Islamic dialogue, rejecting divisive narratives, and advocating for collaboration among different Islamic sects.

Similarly, His Excellency Counselor Mohamed Abdel Salam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, described the conference as a religious and humanitarian obligation in response to the pressing challenges facing the Islamic world. He stressed that dialogue is the most effective means to reinforce unity and cooperation, expressing hope that this initiative will pave the way for lasting partnerships between various Islamic institutions and authorities.

Bahrain’s Commitment to Dialogue and Coexistence

Bahrain has consistently demonstrated a proactive role in fostering interfaith and intra-faith dialogues, solidifying its reputation as a hub for peaceful coexistence and cultural exchange. By hosting this conference, Bahrain reaffirms its dedication to promoting unity within the Muslim world and ensuring that Islamic values of brotherhood and mutual respect are upheld for future generations.

As the world’s attention turns to Manama, the Islamic-Islamic Dialogue Conference is poised to set a precedent for meaningful engagement, ultimately contributing to a stronger, more cohesive Muslim community.