Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney embarked on a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, together with a distinguished delegation. Among the attendees were Abdulrahman Ali Al Neyadi, the UAE Ambassador to Canada, and Radha Krishna Panday, Canada’s Ambassador to the UAE.
Upon arrival, Dr. Yousif Abdallah Alobaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, warmly greeted Carney and his team. Dr. Alobaidli provided a guided tour, sharing insights into the mosque’s rich history. He articulated the mosque’s core cultural messages: coexistence, tolerance, and openness, which are inspired by the legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Moreover, Dr. Alobaidli underscored the centre’s role in fostering dialogues among cultures and enhancing comprehension between various civilizations globally. He illustrated how the mosque symbolizes peaceful coexistence and serves as a focal point for education and cultural exchange.
Cultural tour expert Aisha Mubarak provided an overview of the mosque’s stunning architecture and artistic features. She highlighted the integration of diverse Islamic art styles and architectural elements, creating a visually captivating structure. Intricate designs, elaborate calligraphy, and decorative details were on display, showcasing the creativity and unity of various cultural traditions.
During the visit, Carney and his delegation also paid their respects at the mausoleum of the late Sheikh Zayed, reflecting on his vision of peace and commitment to cultivating a culture of tolerance in the UAE. The Prime Minister expressed admiration for the mosque’s beauty and profound inspiration, noting its representation of Sheikh Zayed’s vision and the Emiratis' dedication to realizing the project.
In a gesture of appreciation, Carney received a commemorative gift illustrating the mosque’s artistic charm. Additionally, he was presented with a copy of the book “Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Lights of Peace,” showcasing the mosque’s unique design and featuring award-winning photographs from the “Spaces of Light” competition. This publication provides a visual exploration of the mosque’s remarkable architecture and engineering feats.
The visit served as a unique opportunity for Carney and his delegation to gain insights into the UAE’s cultural heritage and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque's role in promoting worldwide values of peace and tolerance. It reinforced the significance of cultural exchange and mutual understanding between nations.
Carney’s exploration of this iconic site reflected his appreciation for Islamic art, architectural brilliance, and the harmonious message conveyed by the mosque. The visit also enhanced cultural relations between Canada and the UAE, emphasizing the shared dedication to peace, tolerance, and global collaboration.
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