UAE delegation meet in Malaga, sends message of dialogue and constructive engagement

A high-level delegation from the United Arab Emirates, led by Lubna Qassim, Charge d’Affaires and UAE Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, has participated in the High-Level International Conference on Human Rights, Civil Society and Counter-Terrorism, held in Malaga, Spain.

During her presentation, Lubna Qassim, said, “It has been an honour to participate at the Malaga conference and to be involved in important dialogue to showcase tolerance and co-existence, as a pillar of the UAE’s foreign policy.”

She added, “The UAE is committed to freedom of worship and coexistence between all faiths. As home to over 200 nationalities and dozens of mosques, temples, churches, and synagogues, the UAE has distinguished itself as a tolerant nation with the capacity to accommodate diverse beliefs. Moreover, the UAE believes that one of the best defences against extremism is an environment of tolerance. The nation will continue to build bridges, promote peace and stability and to fight against extremism and terrorism, which is a threat to stability within our region and beyond.”

In preparation of the conference, the Malaga City Council organised a specialist meeting focused on developing a Plan of Action on intercultural and interfaith engagement, as a catalyst to prevent conflicts and promote global peace.

The conference included the attendance of high-level representatives from the governments of Spain, Argentina, and the Holy See, as well as the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace, and the University of Malaga. It was coordinated by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the University for Peace, in cooperation with the Muslim World League (MWL), the World Jewish Congress (WJC), and the Caritas in Veritate Foundation.

During the conference, the publication entitled Multilateralism, Human Rights and Diplomacy: a Global Perspective, was launched. Co-authors include French President Emmanuel Macron, Ambassadors across Geneva and senior UN officials. Lubna Qassim, who also co-authored the publication, presents the UAE’s pioneering efforts for peace in the region and beyond, as well as how the UAE’s leadership builds bridges.

The book was launched in partnership with the University for Peace and in cooperation with the Muslim World League. It received support from the Spanish Embassy in Saudi Arabia; UAE Mission to UN in Geneva; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Costa Rica; the Sovereign Order of Malta; Caritas in Veritate Foundation; the World Jewish Congress; the UNESCO Chair at Abat Oliba CEU University; Leaders for Peace; the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation; the European Public Law Organisation; Peace without Borders; and the International Development Law Organisation.