UAE is a role model of inter-faith tolerance and coexistence: Nahyan

Abu Dhabi, April 5, 2010 (WAM)- The UAE has set a model of inter-faith tolerance and peaceful coexistence under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Sayed Al Nahyan, said Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
He was speaking during the Easter Mass held by the Egyptian Orthodox Coptic Church, at the St. Antonious Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Abu Dhabi, on Saturday to mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
"The UAE is a role model of inter-faith tolerance, peaceful coexistence and respecting others regardless of colour, religion, race or nationality," Sheikh Nahyan said.
He added that all expatriate residents coexist in harmony in the UAE where everyone enjoys stability and security, thanks to the country's tolerant policy.
Brotherly ties
Sheikh Nahyan referred to the deep-rooted brotherly ties between the UAE and Egypt which serve as an example of joint action and fruitful cooperation in all fields for the best interests of the Arab nation at large. He expressed happiness at the safe return of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak after he underwent a surgical operation in Germany and wished him good health and the Egyptian people more progress and prosperity.
Sheikh Nahyan urged the Egyptian community to support the UAE's efforts aiming at cultivating and establishing the values of tolerance, justice and co-existence in people all over the world.
Eshaq Al Anba Bishoy, Vicar of St. Antonious Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Abu Dhabi, lauded the religious tolerance policy adopted by the UAE under the leadership of Sheikh Khalifa.
He was speaking on behalf of Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria and the Patriarch of All Africa.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the President and the UAE people on the death of Sheikh Ahmad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The service was held in the presence of the Egyptian ambassador to the UAE, religious figures and the Egyptian community.