Pope Francis has commended the efforts made by the UAE to promote tolerance and strengthen inter-faith dialogue and peaceful coexistence between the world's peoples.
The pope made his remarks at his meeting with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International co-operation, who is on an official visit to the Vatican, during which he delivered a message from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Force, inviting the pope to visit UAE.
Sheikh Abdullah and the pontiff exchanged views on the latest developments in the Middle East, along with international issues of mutual concern.
Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed the UAE’s determination to foster co-operation with the Vatican, out of its belief in the importance of boosting inter-faith dialogue. He expressed the UAE’s appreciation of the efforts made by Pope Francis to promote peace in the world, citing the brotherly relations between the pope and Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al Azhar, as an example of the values of tolerance and peace that should prevail in today’s world.
Pope Francis has commended and highlighted the pioneering humanitarian initiatives championed by the UAE to alleviate the suffering of the needy, irrespective of colour, culture, ethnicity, race and religion.
The meeting was attended by Dr Hessa Abdullah Al Otaiba, UAE Non-Resident Ambassador to the Vatican State.
