Media has vital role to play: Lubna
dubai — The UAE is making history with the launch of new ministries as part of its recent cabinet reshuffle, which include ministries for tolerance, happiness and youth, said Cabinet Member and Minister of State for Tolerance, Shaikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi.
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 UAE residents, she said.
The world’s first Minister for Tolerance further said that social media is a key partner in promoting coexistence and spreading tolerance among people of different cultures and backgrounds, especially at a time when incidences of terrorism, bigotry and racism are rising in the world. At a session on tolerance held on the sidelines of the second Arab Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) held on December 13-14, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Shaikha Lubna said that tolerance is one of the key pillars on which the UAE has been established, as envisioned by the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, making the UAE a preferred destination for Arab nationals to work and live in.
She also noted that bigotry and hate have increased around 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 in people.
She said that the UAE Charter of Tolerance, Coexistence and Peace will coordinate and energise efforts to achieve its vision.
Positive thinking is key to combating destructive elements and eradicating bigotry, racism, extremism and terrorism, and she also highlighted the vital role media Twitter impressions of #tolerance_unites_us launched on International Tolerance Day, Nov 16 plays in promoting the true image and essence of Islam.
She pointed out the hashtag launched by Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, VicePresident and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on the International Day for Tolerance on November 16, generated more than 472 million Twitter impressions over three weeks.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com