'Tolerance a cultural, religious value in UAE'

Abu Dhabi, Nov 15 (IANS/WAM) Tolerance is a highly respected religious and cultural value in the UAE, and the people have acquired this quality from their forefathers and have been practising it as part of their faith, a Minister has said.

Thani bin Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said this in his speech on the eve of the International Day for Tolerance, which is observed on November 16.

Al-Zeyoudi said tolerance is expected to be shown by the strong individuals and nations as they are better able to implement this value than the weak.

"We have been conceiving a greater meaning for the word tolerance than merely forgiving the mistakes of others. The mutual respect, acceptance and appreciation of the rich diversity of various world cultures prevailing in our country since its inception are globally appreciated," he said.

"The UAE is a place where all cultures, freedom of expression and human values are respected as stated in the Universal Declaration of Principles on Tolerance."

The minister said peaceful co-existence of more than 200 nationalities in the UAE is an unparalleled example of tolerance on a global level.

The high level of peace and harmony has been achieved as a result of the nation's deep-rooted humanitarian values, including tolerance, he said.

The UAE occupies the third rank in the national culture index for tolerance and openness of the local culture to accept others, according to the annual report of global competitiveness.

--IANS/WAM

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