In an interview published in the Arabic-language newspaper Al Ittihad, reviewed on Monday by the Emirati News Agency (WAM), the Supreme Pontiff highlighted President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s commitment to fighting diseases around the world and disseminating the principles of human brotherhood through concrete initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the most disadvantaged.

“The greatness of any country is not measured solely by its wealth, but by its substantial role in the dissemination and defense of the values of peace, fraternity, and coexistence,” said the highest representative of the Catholic Church.

He described late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as a far-sighted leader who built his country on tolerance, coexistence and education and whose children follow in his footsteps.

Pope Francis reaffirmed the importance of the Document on Human Fraternity as a roadmap for peace, and praised the Abrahamic Family House and the courage of the UAE in implementing this important project.

Regarding the text, he pointed out indicated that he was very pleased with the acceptance and understanding of the world community of the message it transmits and its objectives as a guide for future generations, recognizing that we are all members of one single human family.

In his first statement on the recent burning of the Holy Quran in Sweden, His Holiness said that allowing such a behavior is “unacceptable and condemned.” He stressed that freedom of expression should not be used as an excuse to offend others, and expressed deep anger at such a behavior.

On the other hand, he described the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) as an urgent call to address the environmental crisis, and expressed his hope that the UAE’s efforts to host the conference at Expo City Dubai in November will deliver solutions.

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