Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Forum for Peace recently conducted a high-level consultative meeting at the headquarters of the United States Department of State. The meeting brought together a delegation from the Forum, led by Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah, alongside senior officials from the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as notable international religious and intellectual figures.
According to Emirates News Agency, this meeting is part of a broader international effort aimed at fostering stability and building sustainable peace across the African continent. It aligns with the advanced role played by the United Arab Emirates in supporting peace initiatives and strengthening international partnerships rooted in shared human values.
Representing the US were Riley Barnes, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, and Mark Walker, Principal Advisor on Global Religious Freedom to the State Department. The UK was represented by David Smith, Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, along with Justin Welby, former Archbishop of Canterbury, and Baron Rook.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah expressed gratitude to the US Department of State for the invitation and hospitality, emphasizing the deep friendship and strategic partnership between the UAE, the US, and the UK. He highlighted the shared vision of these nations that peace and stability are essential for safeguarding human dignity and promoting global security and prosperity.
The discussions centered on enhancing coordination and integration to support reconciliation and peacebuilding efforts in Africa. This approach combines diplomatic, religious, and community dimensions, respects local contexts, cultural particularities, and empowers religious, civil, and youth leaders.
The participants also highlighted the need to move from crisis management to preventive peace investments by linking community reconciliation with sustainable development programs. They discussed the importance of strengthening trust among local communities and supporting authentic African initiatives to combat hate speech and extremism.
The meeting reviewed successful African peacebuilding initiatives and emphasized that sustaining these efforts requires long-term international partnerships based on shared responsibility and complementary roles.
In conclusion, participants stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue and developing practical coordination mechanisms to enhance the impact of joint initiatives, contributing to a safer and more peaceful future for Africa.
