Abu Dhabi, May 19
In a gesture that reflects the UAE's enduring commitment to tolerance, cultural openness, and interfaith dialogue, Sheikh Nahayan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, met with the Venerable Phraphawanathammaphinan Seesuk, Chief Monk of Nah Luang Temple in Udon Thani Province, Thailand, during an official visit to the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
The meeting was held in the presence of Sorayut Chasombat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the United Arab Emirates, who warmly welcomed Sheikh Nahayan, emphasising the significance of the visit as a key milestone in fostering cultural and spiritual cooperation between the two nations--particularly as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.
This visit was part of a broader program hosted by the Thai Embassy, which welcomed a delegation of monks from Nah Luang Temple to the UAE from 15 to 22 May 2025. The visit aims to promote interfaith dialogue and to share the spiritual and cultural values embedded in the Buddhist tradition, within the framework of mutual respect and global understanding.
During the meeting, Sheikh Nahayan bin Mubarak extended a warm welcome to the Thai religious delegation, expressing deep appreciation for the strong ties between the Emirati and Thai peoples. He affirmed that such engagements with spiritual leaders from around the world are instrumental in advancing the global values of tolerance, coexistence, and peace--while building inclusive societies rooted in mutual respect and fraternity.
For his part, the Venerable Chief Monk Phraphawanathammaphinan Seesuk expressed his sincere gratitude to Sheikh Nahayan for the gracious reception, commending the UAE's leadership for its unwavering commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and cultural harmony. He further highlighted the importance of such cross-cultural and interreligious engagements in strengthening the foundations of global peace and understanding.
The meeting concluded with a group photo session, capturing a moment of shared respect and human connection that both nations continue to foster through dialogue, cooperation, and cultural diplomacy. (ANI/WAM)
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is a beautiful example of how nations should interact - with mutual respect and cultural exchange. As Indians, we understand the importance of Buddhist traditions given our shared history with Thailand. More such initiatives please! ðŸ™
UAE continues to impress with its interfaith initiatives. In our diverse country, we could learn from their model of tolerance while preserving our own rich traditions. The Buddhist connection with Thailand reminds me of our own cultural links through Buddhism.
While this is positive, I hope such interfaith dialogues also address practical issues like the treatment of Indian workers in UAE and Thailand. Cultural exchange is good, but we mustn't forget ground realities.
The photo of the meeting says it all - smiles and mutual respect! As someone who's visited both UAE and Thailand, I've seen how both nations value their traditions while being modern. India could take inspiration from this balance.
Interesting to see UAE engaging with Buddhist leaders. In India, we've had Buddhist connections for centuries - from Bodh Gaya to Ajanta caves. Maybe our government should organize more such cultural exchanges with Buddhist nations.
The 50 years of UAE-Thailand relations is impressive! Makes me think about our own relations with these countries. We share so much history with Thailand, and so many Indians work in UAE. Hope we strengthen our cultural diplomacy too. 😊
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