Sharjah and UAE Ministry join hands to promote tolerance and cultural understanding

Sharjah: The Sharjah Department of Government Relations (DGR) recently hosted a delegation from the UAE Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence to explore new avenues of collaboration in promoting diversity, cultural understanding, and shared human values.

Held at the DGR headquarters, the meeting focused on how both entities could support national strategies and contribute to building a more inclusive society. The discussions closely aligned with Sharjah’s vision of sustainable development grounded in dialogue and coexistence.

The meeting brought together Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of DGR, and Rashid Ibrahim Al Nuaimi, Advisor for Strategic Planning and Institutional Performance at the Ministry. Both sides exchanged insights on ongoing initiatives such as Government as an Incubator of Tolerance and the Pulse of Tolerance Award—programs that foster idea exchange, highlight best practices, and help embed a culture of respect across institutions and communities.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi emphasised the importance of upholding the values of tolerance in daily life.

“These values are part of our identity,” he said. “They come from the vision of our founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed, who believed in equality, openness, and mutual respect. Today, under our wise leadership, we continue to build on that foundation.”

“Working with the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence allows us to turn these values into real action. In Sharjah, our rich cultural heritage gives us a unique platform to lead initiatives that spark dialogue and bring people together,” he added.

The Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence leads the National Tolerance Programme, partnering with local and international organisations to promote tolerance as a tool for peace, unity, and development.

Sharjah is widely recognised for its commitment to inclusion. From mosques and museums to churches and cultural centres, the emirate offers a vibrant blend of traditions and faiths coexisting in harmony.

One standout example is the collaboration between the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation and the Vatican Museums, which brought together rare and treasured artifacts in a landmark exhibition. The presence of 10 churches across the emirate further underscores Sharjah’s dedication to interfaith respect.

Through such efforts, Sharjah continues to lead by example — proving that cultural diversity is not just a value, but a cornerstone for building a peaceful, forward-looking society.