The Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Salim Hitimana is in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the world Interreligious Summit that is underway in the capital Abu Dhabi. The two-day summit which kicked off on Monday attracted over 600 delegates from Muslim, Jewish and Christian communities around the world. It is being held under the theme; “Promoting Human Fraternity, Work together to promote peace and reject war” was co-chaired by Pope Francis and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, the grand imam of Egypts Al-Azhar. In his speech, Pope Francis called for everyone’s efforts and commitment in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous world; stressing that people have different beliefs but still have the same right of citizenship and equal before their creator. “The arms race, the extension of its zones of influence, the aggressive policies to the detriment of others will never bring stability. War cannot create anything but misery, weapons bring nothing but death!” said Pope Francis. In his first-ever papal visit to the Arabian Peninsula Pope Francis signed a document promoting “Human Fraternity” with Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, the grand imam of Egypts Al-Azhar, the signed pact will see denominations working together to promote peace and harmony amongst Muslims and Christians. Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Salim Hitimana with a delegate at for the world Interreligious Summit that is underway in the capital Abu Dhabi. (Courtesy photo) In an interview with Hitimana said that such gatherings are crucial in bringing peace in communities of the world. “This interreligious summit is paramount for us; we are sharing experiences and learning from our fellow religious leaders on how to tackle issues faced by those we lead in faith; we are as well joining efforts ensuring the betterment of our people’s livelihoods and promote mutual respect among us hence living in a war-free world.” Mufti Hitimana added. The Mufti stressed that the clergy should preach peace to respective worshipers, adding that there cannot be stability a crime and terror-laden environment. The interreligious summit concludes on Tuesday with an historical mass on the Arabian Peninsula which is to be led by Pope Francis. READ ALSO: Muslims elect new Mufti
