Abu Dhabi, UAE – The UAE Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence and the COP28 Presidency have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity during COP28 slated to take place from November 30 – December 12.
The UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak stressed that the MoU signifies a collective commitment to COP28’s goals, with a focus on encouraging faith organizations and leaders worldwide to actively engage in this global conversation.
“This aligns with the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Ministry’s efforts to combat climate change,” Sheikh Nahyan. “Unified action rooted in values of tolerance is crucial for leveraging local and international resources toward the conference’s objectives.”
The MoU will enhance cooperation to promote interfaith dialogue, address climate change issues, and utilize the Ministry’s expertise. It will also involve coordinating local and international climate efforts for COP28, supporting initiatives to combat climate change in alignment with tolerance, coexistence, and interfaith dialogue principles. The ultimate goal is to mobilize religious organizations and leaders globally to address climate challenges and promote sustainability.
The Ministry of Tolerance will also assist in organizing and overseeing the Faith Pavilion at COP28, particularly during events attended by Sheikh Nahyan and Dr. Al Jaber. Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and COP28 President-Designate.
Dr Al Jaber said: “COP28 will be the most inclusive COP ever. We are committed to working with all sections of society, including faith-based organisations and communities, to ensure their voices are heard throughout our programmes and are aligned with outcomes.”
“Accordingly, the COP28 Presidency will work with the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence to provide a global stage for fostering interfaith dialogue, with the aim of inspiring ambitious goals, and take concrete actions to address the climate crisis,” he added.
Moreover, the Ministry, along with the Muslim Council of Elders and partners, will invite spiritual leaders and religious organizations to join the Faith Pavilion at COP28. The platform aims to enhance global religious engagement and interfaith dialogue to bolster climate action and address the climate crisis.
As per the MoU, Sheikh Nahyan will serve as the Commissioner-General and official spokesperson for interfaith dialogue at COP28.