Lisbon, December 01, 2024 – The King Abdullah International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) has successfully concluded a pivotal series of intensive meetings held over two days in Lisbon, aimed at further strengthening its global initiatives. The discussions, attended by KAICIID's Board of Directors, the Council of Parties, and the General Secretariat, centered on enhancing the Center’s existing programs and exploring new avenues to address the deep-seated conflicts rooted in religious and cultural differences around the world. The meetings underscored KAICIID’s continued commitment to promoting dialogue, peace, and mutual understanding across diverse regions.
A key focus of the discussions was reviewing the Centre's strategies for its initiatives in regions most impacted by conflict and tension, including Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Arab world. The global scope of KAICIID’s work, which spans numerous countries and cultures, is designed to build bridges between communities, fostering environments where dialogue can thrive as a tool for conflict resolution and long-term societal harmony. The strategy review allowed participants to assess the ongoing success of these initiatives and identify areas for further enhancement, with a particular focus on regions where religious and cultural divisions have contributed to instability and violence.
Dr. Zuhair Alharthi, KAICIID’s Secretary General, commended the collaborative efforts of all those involved in the meetings. He emphasized that their collective contributions are vital in driving the Center’s mission forward, particularly in the pursuit of fostering deeper intercultural and interreligious understanding. Dr. Alharthi underscored the crucial role that governance and transparency play in ensuring the Center’s long-term impact. He highlighted that clear governance structures are essential in advancing KAICIID’s goals, which are centered on creating a global framework where diverse religious and cultural groups can engage in respectful dialogue, leading to peace, stability, and societal progress.
As part of its commitment to global dialogue, KAICIID has been working tirelessly to facilitate discussions among leaders and communities who are often divided by religious or cultural differences. These efforts are not only aimed at addressing current conflicts but also at preventing future discord by building mutual respect and understanding among different groups. The Center’s role in fostering such dialogues has become increasingly important, as the world faces rising tensions and divisions in various regions.
The meetings in Lisbon marked a significant milestone in the Center’s ongoing efforts to broaden its reach and impact. Looking ahead, KAICIID remains focused on strengthening its role as a global leader in interreligious and intercultural dialogue, while continuing to work closely with local communities, international partners, and governments to create a more peaceful and inclusive world. The Center’s mission remains clear: to bridge divides, promote understanding, and provide a platform for dialogue that contributes to lasting peace and stability in societies around the globe.