IN a world grappling with the detrimental effects of religious intolerance and cultural clashes, it is truly heartening to witness a nation rising above these challenges and firmly addressing the issue of Islamophobia. China, led by President Xi Jinping, has demonstrated unwavering resolve in condemning acts of religious hatred, exemplified by its opposition to the recent incident of the Quran burning in Sweden. Through the resolute voices of its officials, China has underscored its commitment to fostering mutual respect, tolerance and understanding among civilizations, striving towards global harmony and the progress of world civilization. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly condemned the Quran burning incident and rejected all forms of Islamophobia. Spokesperson Mao Ning stressed that inciting conflicts based on religious beliefs should never be tolerated. China promotes an environment where all religions and beliefs are treated with dignity and understanding.
Ambassador Chen Xu, head of the Chinese Mission to the United Nations, reiterated China’s stance during a debate at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR). He emphasized that freedom of expression should never be exploited to justify the incitement of clashes between civilizations. Chen acknowledged the significant contribution of Islamic civilization and reaffirmed China’s readiness to work with all parties to implement the Global Civilization Initiative which encourages equality, mutual learning, dialogue and tolerance among civilizations.
China’s firm stance against Islamophobia has garnered deep appreciation from Muslims worldwide. Muslims are heartened by the tangible actions taken by the Chinese Government to promote mutual respect, tolerance and understanding. China’s condemnation of the Quran burning in Sweden resonates deeply with Muslims who have endured the pain of witnessing their sacred texts desecrated. China’s stance against Islamophobia demonstrates a genuine commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of Muslims. This principled stance resonates deeply with Muslims who have long sought recognition and respect for their religious beliefs and cultural practices. It sends a powerful message that no one should be subjected to discrimination or persecution based on their faith.
Islamic organizations, governments and individuals across the globe have expressed gratitude for China’s unwavering support. Muslim-majority nations, including Turkey, Jordan, Palestine and Saudi Arabia, have shown appreciation for China’s commitment to upholding the principles of religious freedom and combating Islamophobia. Muslims in countries like Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Senegal, Morocco and Mauritania have also voiced their appreciation, acknowledging China’s commitment to equality and combating Islamophobia.
President Xi Jinping’s visionary initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), stands at the forefront of China’s efforts to promote cultural exchange and understanding. The GCI is a testament to China’s commitment to building bridges among civilizations and nurturing an environment of mutual learning and acceptance. It recognizes the impact of religious intolerance and Islamophobia on global harmony and calls for collective action to address these challenges.
Under the GCI, China advocates for the principles of equality, respect and dialogue among diverse civilizations. President Xi Jinping envisions a world where different cultures and religions co-exist harmoniously, contributing to the tapestry of human civilization. The GCI serves as a platform for fostering dialogue and exchanges between nations, encouraging an appreciation of cultural diversity and safeguarding the rights and dignity of all religious communities.
The incident in Sweden, which occurred during Eid al-Adha, garnered widespread condemnation from the Islamic world. China’s unwavering support for the victims of religious persecution sends a powerful message of solidarity and empathy. It demonstrates that the pursuit of global harmony requires the collective effort of nations and that the international community must stand together to safeguard the rights and dignity of all religious communities.
China’s resolute condemnation of the Quran burning incident is not an isolated event but a reflection of its broader commitment to the principles enshrined in the GCI. By taking a firm stand against Islamophobia and religious hatred, China sends a clear message that freedom of expression should never be abused as a tool to incite conflict. Chinese officials emphasize that the religious beliefs and sentiments of Muslims deserve the utmost respect and consideration.
The GCI goes beyond mere rhetoric, embodying China’s dedication to action and tangible outcomes. It seeks to enhance understanding and mutual learning between civilizations, promoting harmony and cooperation on a global scale. Through initiatives such as cultural exchange programs, educational collaborations and interfaith dialogue, the GCI aims to bridge the gaps between cultures, dispel misconceptions and build lasting connections based on respect and appreciation.
China’s unwavering commitment to the principles of the GCI is all the more significant in the light of the Quran burning incident and other instances of religious intolerance. The GCI serves as a guiding light for other nations grappling with similar challenges. President Xi Jinping’s visionary leadership and the implementation of the GCI demonstrate China’s dedication to creating a world where diverse civilizations can thrive side by side, enriching each other through their unique contribution.
As the world confronts the complexities of religious intolerance and cultural clashes, the GCI offers a beacon of hope. China’s principled stance against Islamophobia and its commitment to global harmony through the GCI set a commendable example for other nations to follow. It is imperative that other nations work collectively to address deep-rooted issues that fuel discrimination, arrogance and Xenophobia. Through dialogue, understanding and respect, we can build a world where diverse civilizations co-exist harmoniously, contributing to the progress of humanity as a whole. By fostering mutual respect, tolerance and understanding among civilizations, we can collectively work towards a future where religious differences are celebrated rather than feared, and where the advancement of world civilization is driven by collaboration and unity.
—The writer is a Pakistani Climate Youth Leader, UN SDGs Advocate and an expert on Youth Development in the Global South.
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