ABU DHABI, 22nd February, 2018 (WAM) -- Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, President of Zayed University, recently received a delegation of 47 professors and students from the Catholic Institute in Paris, led by Ludovic Danto, Dean of the Faculty of Canon Law, at both the Abu Dhabi and the Dubai university campuses.

Both sides discussed joint academic relations and projects including research and dialogue on Islam and Christianity, in an effort to promote the values of tolerance and peace, as well as exchange academic experiences in the field of religious and social education.

Coordinated by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, the delegation attended several workshops and discussions with their ZU counterparts on issues relating to law, ethnicity and religious diversity in Islam.

"The UAE is committed to establishing tolerance as a fundamental principle of life," Al Qasimi said.

Sheikha Lubna praised the role played by the French Catholic Institute in promoting a dialogue between religions, indicating their notable step in signing an agreement with Al-Azhar University in Cairo last year, through which, its Institute of Science and Religious Theology, aims to promote interfaith dialogues.

She noted the presence of a Christian monastery on the island of Sir Bani Yas in the UAE, which dates back to the 7th and 8th centuries AD. Sheikh Zayed had encouraged work at the site, she noted, and had ensured the preservation of this internationally-significant site.

"There is evidence that a Christian community resided in Sir Bani Yas during that period, living alongside the Muslim population. This, in turn, reflects the spirit of religious tolerance and co-existence amongst various religious communities," she said.

Danto in turn said, "Our visit stands for open interfaith dialogues to wisely understand Islam, and to admire a nation that crowds hundreds of nationalities and beliefs, and managed to maintain harmony and social peace."

"Sheikh Zayed is an exemplary role model of a great man who loves his country and people and wishes harmony to all mankind. He united a nation and opened his door to everyone from all over the world to live in a safe, stable and beautiful country," Danto added.

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