Makkah, August 13, 2023, In a grand display of global unity, the international Islamic conference titled "Communication with the Departments of Religious Affairs, Ifta, and Sheikhdoms in the World" commenced today in the sacred city of Makkah. Under the esteemed patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, this momentous gathering aims to foster communication and integration. With a remarkable turnout of 150 distinguished scholars, muftis, and leaders from Islamic centers and associations hailing from 85 nations, this conference promises to be a platform for fruitful dialogue and collaboration. In a grand event orchestrated by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, a conference of utmost significance was launched. The ceremonial inauguration commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, setting a spiritual tone for the proceedings. The esteemed Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance, Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, then took the podium to deliver a heartfelt address on behalf of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With warmth and hospitality, he extended a warm welcome to all the distinguished participants gathered at the conference. In a recent statement, Dr. Al-Sheikh highlighted the profound significance of this conference, emphasizing its focus on consultation. It is worth noting that this esteemed event is taking place in Saudi Arabia, a nation that has long embraced this fundamental principle. Since its very inception by Imam King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Faisal, Saudi Arabia has been committed to upholding the true message of Islam and promoting the principles of justice, mercy, and moderation. This authentic approach has not only garnered admiration but has also become a shining example for others to emulate.
In a statement, he emphasized the significance of today's meeting, highlighting the crucial role it plays in fostering consultation and cooperation. This gathering aims to promote a moderate, centrist approach to Islam, particularly in the face of escalating hate speech and extremism. Furthermore, it seeks to address the detrimental impact of certain corrupt practices that have tarnished the principles of Islam and its pursuit of justice. In a recent statement, the minister highlighted the concerning issue of certain Islamic action party groups exploiting religion for their own political gains. This manipulation of faith, the minister emphasized, comes at the expense of the true essence of religion. Urging immediate action, the minister stressed the importance of addressing the politicization of religion, especially in light of the growing prevalence of heretical beliefs and attempts to distort Islam. In a remarkable conclusion to his speech, Dr. Al-Sheikh expressed his heartfelt appreciation to none other than the esteemed Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. Their unwavering commitment to the ministry's various programs has been nothing short of exceptional, as they have continuously provided invaluable follow-up, directives, and unwavering support. In a momentous address, the esteemed Supreme Mufti of Kazakhstan, Nauryzbai Kazhy Taganuly, conveyed his profound gratitude to the Saudi government for their exceptional efforts in orchestrating this remarkable conference.
In a passionate plea, he addressed the alarming incidents of Quran burning and desecration that have unfolded across multiple European countries. Urging unity among Muslim nations, he called for a joint statement denouncing these abhorrent acts. In a powerful address, Dr. Mohammed Matar Al-Kaabi, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments in the UAE, emphasized the significance of this conference as a platform for fostering communication and unity among esteemed scholars, muftis, religious leaders, and officials engaged in religious discourse worldwide. Dr. Al-Kaabi underscored the pressing nature of this gathering, which takes place amidst formidable challenges that threaten the very essence of human values advocated by the Divine messages and reinforced by robust educational frameworks, particularly the values of faith. In a remarkable statement, the Grand Mufti of Mauritania and Imam of the Great Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Murabit Al-Shanqeeti, has expressed his admiration for the Kingdom's commendable efforts. Under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince, Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in various domains that directly impact Muslims worldwide. In a noteworthy statement, he emphasized the significance of this conference, highlighting the pressing need for the entire Islamic nation to confront the ever-evolving developments and intricate challenges of the modern era. The solution to these issues demands a deep understanding of the origins, rules, and objectives of Islamic law, as well as a comprehensive grasp of its various dimensions and profound significance.
In a recent development, the Secretary-General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, has expressed his utmost satisfaction with his participation in a highly esteemed intellectual and scientific event. This event, of great significance, delves into a matter that lies at the very heart of the organization's primary mission. That mission, in essence, is to bolster Islamic unity, champion Islamic values, and foster integration across all domains, all in the pursuit of serving the best interests of the people. In a recent statement, he emphasized the significance of "The Communication and Integration" conference, as it aims to address the numerous obstacles confronting the Islamic nation. These challenges encompass political advancements, intellectual hurdles, and the alarming propagation of distorted perceptions of Islam. In response, he urged a resolute stance against these adversarial inclinations while advocating for the promotion of Islamic unity. This unity, he asserted, should be founded upon principles of civilization, culture, and humanity, fostering cooperation, cohesion, interaction, and the advancement of human civilization across various domains such as education, culture, thought, and economy.
In a recent statement, Taha emphasized that Saudi Arabia's role as a key player in promoting the advancement of the Islamic nation has been solidified by its hosting of this significant conference. Taha expressed gratitude towards the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince for their unwavering support across multiple domains, which has greatly contributed to the success of the OIC's mission to serve Islam and Muslims. On a momentous occasion, the inaugural session of the conference commenced with the esteemed presence of Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al-Sheikh, serving as the Chairman of the Conference. Leading the proceedings was none other than Dr. Saleh bin Saad Al-Suhaimi, a distinguished faculty member at the prestigious Islamic University. In a riveting two-day event, the conference sessions are set to captivate audiences with their thought-provoking content. A total of eight sessions, each infused with the essence of seven main axes, promise to deliver an intellectually stimulating experience. Notably, this event will feature the esteemed presence of a distinguished group of Muslim scholars, adding profound depth to the proceedings.
