Dubai: The UAE is making history with the launch of new ministries as part of its recent cabinet reshuffle, said Shaikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minister of State for Tolerance.
She referred to the ministries of tolerance, happiness and youth in her speech in a session on the sidelines of the Arab Social Media Influencers Summit held on December 13-14 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
“The new ministries reflect the leadership’s vision to promote tolerance and cultural diversity in the country, and its commitment to support youth and enhance the happiness of all residents in the UAE,” she said.
The minister explained that organisations will be encouraged to promote tolerance through a Tolerance Responsibility Programme for Organisations, which the Cabinet described as the first of its kind worldwide.
Shaikha Lubna referred to tolerance as one of the key pillars on which the UAE has been established, as envisioned by the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
In line with the vision of the country’s leaders who have continued to develop a harmonious society that is based on mutual acceptance and respect, the UAE has become a preferred destination for Arab nationals to work in and live.
Shaikha Lubna noted that bigotry and hate have increased in the world, as evidenced by the rising number of hate crimes. “Institutions dedicated to tolerance need to be developed so that the values of tolerance, peace and coexistence can be deeply instilled among the people,” she said.
The launch of a ministry dedicated to tolerance reflects the UAE leadership’s determination to promote the true image of Islam not only in the UAE, where over 200 nationalities live in harmony, but also worldwide, she added. Shaikha Lubna also pointed out that the ministry she oversees is unique as it offers no tangible services but is focused on promoting human values.
She said that the UAE Charter of Tolerance, Coexistence and Peace will coordinate and energise efforts to achieve the vision behind this objective that was initiated by Shaikh Zayed.
The world’s first Minister for Tolerance said family is the cornerstone for tolerance, and stressed the importance of instilling this value among the youth. “Social media is a key partner in promoting coexistence and spreading tolerance among people of different cultures and backgrounds, especially at a time when the incidence of terrorism, bigotry and racism is rising in the world.”
She added that positive thinking is key to combating destructive elements and eradicating bigotry, racism, extremism and terrorism. Highlighting the vital role media plays in promoting the true image and essence of Islam, Shaikha Lubna said the hashtag launched by Shaikh Mohammad on the International Day for Tolerance on November 16 generated more than 472 million Twitter impressions over three weeks.
