Foundations, Principles of Islamic Dialogue discussed at Baghdad Book Fair

The Muslim Council of Elders' pavilion continued its program at the Baghdad International Book Fair by hosting a seminar titled "Islamic Dialogue: Foundations and Principles." The seminar was presented by Dr. Abdul Wahab Al-Samarrai, Professor at Imam Al-Azam University, and Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research. It focused on the key foundations and principles necessary for successful intra-Islamic dialogue, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect grounded in the Quran and the Sunnah, and highlighting the role of academic and intellectual institutions in fostering dialogue.

Dr. Samir Boudinar opened the seminar by stressing the urgent need for enhanced dialogue between the various components of the Islamic Ummah, given the significant and diverse challenges threatening its unity and stability. He emphasized that establishing clear foundations, principles, and conditions is essential for ensuring that dialogue achieves its intended goals.

He further noted that meaningful dialogue can only succeed if it is rooted in the rich heritage and values of the Ummah, which are drawn from its religious and humanitarian principles that have guided it through the ages. Dr. Boudinar praised the historic call made by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, during the Bahrain Dialogue Forum in 2022, advocating for intra-Islamic dialogue. He emphasized that this call aims to help the Ummah overcome difficult historical challenges and unite to address the growing threats of division and discord.

Dr. Abdul Wahab Al-Samarrai highlighted that Islamic dialogue should be a way of life and a daily practice aimed at building bridges of understanding and coexistence, free from violence, sectarianism, and disrespect for others. He stressed that institutions and intellectuals must take the lead in promoting this dialogue so that it gradually reaches all sectors of society, especially the youth and future generations, who will be the leaders responsible for shaping a better future. He warned that if dialogue remains confined to elites, it will not bring about the necessary societal changes.

The professor at Imam Al-Azam University also expressed his gratitude to the Muslim Council of Elders for its diverse publications at the Baghdad International Book Fair, which has enriched the event. He added, "We are witnessing tangible efforts by the Council to promote intra-Islamic dialogue, and we hope these efforts will help bridge the gaps between different Islamic sects and schools of thought. This dialogue must be conducted with the highest standards and values, promoting unity and solidarity among Muslims in the face of the current challenges threatening the stability and unity of the Ummah."

Dr. Al-Samarrai further emphasized that intra-Islamic dialogue is a social duty, a natural law, a religious imperative, a human necessity, and a cultural obligation. It must be built on essential principles, including equality, good faith, and mutual respect. He pointed out that focusing on the common beliefs shared by Islamic sects—such as faith in monotheism, prophethood, the Quran, and the Day of Judgment—is more effective than dwelling on divisive issues. He concluded by stressing the need for dialogue to be accompanied by serious reviews and tangible outcomes. If such reviews do not lead to the correction of positions and mistakes, the dialogue loses its value. Dr. Al-Samarrai called for real actions based on the results of dialogue, including legal measures to criminalize insults against religious symbols and to promote tolerance and coexistence.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the first time at the Baghdad International Book Fair, in line with its mission to promote peace, foster dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of coexistence among people of different races and beliefs. The pavilion, located in Baghdad Hall (Pavilion H2), showcases over 220 publications in five languages, including 24 new releases that address significant intellectual and cultural topics. Additionally, the pavilion is hosting a series of seminars and lectures featuring prominent thinkers, scholars, and academics to discuss ways to enhance dialogue and understanding among Islamic sects and to build bridges of communication, aiming for greater cooperation and unity among the various components of the Islamic nation.