Mohamed Jasem Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), underscored the significance of advancing principles such as dialogue, tolerance, acceptance of diversity, and the rejection of hate speech, incitement, and disrespect toward religions and their symbols, despite ideological disparities.

This statement was issued on the occasion of the International Day for Tolerance, observed on November 16.

Albudaiwi emphasized the imperative of establishing foundations for coexistence and peace, in line with the teachings of Islam. He highlighted the crucial role of legislation, both at the local and international levels, as well as educational curricula in promoting tolerance and countering extremism, often rooted in ignorance and fear of the unfamiliar.

The secretary general stressed that the world's diversity in religions, languages, cultures, and sects should not be a source of conflict but a necessity for enriching global human thought.

Albudaiwi expressed that international tolerance requires ensuring justice, peace, and freedom for peoples in their homelands, without displacement, marginalization, or violation of their freedoms and rights.

He asserted that the international community must unite in intensifying efforts to eliminate the root causes of wars and conflicts, which often lead to human rights violations. Albudaiwi added that every act of exclusion and denial of a dignified life with basic rights tends to provoke extremism and retaliation from the affected party.

He noted the prevalence of numerous wars, conflicts, the spread of bigotry and hatred, and divisions in the world today, emphasizing the necessity for a global collective effort to enhance cultural tolerance, dialogue, and acceptance of others.