Annual Interfaith Iftar and Dinner at ICC

Annual Interfaith Iftar and Dinner Party

at the Islamic Cultural Centre, London

Dr. Mozammel Haque

Islamic Cultural Centre has organised an Annual Interfaith Iftar & Dinner Party & Dinner at its Library conference Hall on Thursday 16^th of May, 2019. More than 150 guests including Members of Parliament, diplomats, members and representatives of many embassies, members of interfaith and different Faith groups attended the Iftar & Dinner party. Ambassadors of Bahrain, Algeria and Arab League also attended the Iftar & Dinner party. This Ifter & Dinner Party was sponsored by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates, London.

Dr. Ahmad al-Dubayan Director General of the Islamic Cultural Centre & Central London Mosque Trust, London, welcomed the guests. In his welcoming address, he talked about interfaith as well as the importance of Ramadan and Fasting.

Dr. Ahmad al-Dubayan

Dr. al-Dubayan said, “Muslims dedicated their time to more service for the society, for their families, and for their worshippers.”

Ramadan – the Month of Generosity

“It is the month of generosity; it is the month and time when you have to check and not forget those whom you have forgotten whole year - your neighbours; your parents, sometimes, they are away from your place; your friends, even those who there is a chance to give them something or do something for them. It is like a change points or points of change. All Muslims in the year revise their daily lives, revise their relations, revise their worships, revise their connections with Allah whether everything is going right or I need to correct myself,” mentioned ICC chief.

Lot of traditions around Ramadan

Dr. al-Dubayan also mentioned, “In the early generation of Islam when Ramadan starts they dedicated most of the time actually for reading the Qur’an; worship and for giving to those who need help around. There are lot of traditions, of course, came with the month of Ramadan throughout the world; if you go to Africa, you will find traditions; if you go to Asia. Arab world, Middle East everywhere; even the European Muslims for the last fifty years since they became citizens of Europe they are establishing their traditions of the month of Ramadan - about their food, customs, music; food  timing, gathering with families; gathering with friends. There are some dishes actually; we see really in the month of Ramadan, we don’t see in other times.”

All Faiths Sharing Values

“There are lots of literature and heritage about this spiritual month of Ramadan. That’s why; we called to share this. We believe also it is all faiths sharing values - value of peace, value of mercy, value of justice, value of doing something good to everybody; value of protection of environment - of animals and human rights and everything. So we think it is the time to highlight this meaning. When we come together; when we share together this spirit of this month, that means, we are showing you the spirit of Islam which so far the people think as faith as they are sharing different areas and values together,” mentioned the ICC Director General.

It is also the month of peace

The ICC chief also said about the importance and significance of the month of Ramadan. He said, “Ramadan is the month of peace. Everyone wants this peace. But how to do this? is a big question. But it is really for everyone. Peace does not start if things do not start from the heart. When our hearts are full of peace, then peace will dominate everywhere and accepted everywhere. If the hearts are still full of hatred, full of wrong ideas about people, full of stereotypes about others, then peace  does not have space to come; still far to come. That’s why; for all this reason we are here with our friends - Christian friends, our Jewish friends, our Hindu friends, Sikh friends, Buddhist friends, and others also - we all come here together with us and we are so happy here together.”

2019 – The Year of Tolerance

Dr. al-Dubayan also mentioned about the special importance of this day. He said, “This day is a special day from another side. It is greatly sponsored by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).” He just mentioned about the meaning of tolerance and said, “I am not going to talk about it because we have Rawadha, she is here, who is going to talk about it. UAE has announced this year the Year 2019 a Year of Tolerance. So we are also celebrating this and sharing this together.”  

Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon

Minister of Foreign Affairs UK

Lord Tariq Ahmad, Peer of the House of Lords, British Parliament, started in the name of Allah the Most Gracious and Most Merciful. He said Good Evening and  Assalamualaikum wa Rahmatullahe wa Barakatuh.

Lord Ahmad attended in two capacities

Lord Ahmad said, “It is my immense pleasure to be here on behalf of the government in two capacities; I am a Minister of the Foreign Office and I am also Prime Minister’s Envoy of Freedom of Religion and Belief. As I was coming this evening I was thinking about for a few moments that I have what to share; and the coming together Iftar as Dr Ahmad had said realised here. We have from one Ahmad to another Ahmad; so we have got an abundance of Ahmads. I am saying ahmad means blessing hopefully that reflection of all the evenings that is truly blessed. This is not about one ahmad to another; however many ahmad we have.”

“It is about coming together; and I reflected actually before entered into parliament and government in the city of London a number of years ago, 20 years,” mentioned Lord Ahmad.

Lord Ahmad narrated a story about the sacrifice of Prophet Abraham. He mentioned, “One day I have a conversation I said to Michael I cannot come tomorrow It’s a day of Eid; he said, hold on a minute, you had Tariq; you cannot come you had Eid of course, you had Eid ul Fitr. At which point I said to him, Michael, we actually had two Eids, Eid-ul Fitr which actually we had after the end of Ramadan but we have another Eid called Eid ul Adha. He asked, tell me about that Eid. I said you know the story of sacrifice by Prophet Abraham; he said, hold on, you believe in Prophet Abraham; yes I do; I said it’s the story of Sacrifice when Prophet Abraham was instructed to sacrifice his son and he obediently did that. yes yes I know that; we believed in that as well, said Michael and then he said, hold on a minute; he said it was Issac; no no then he picked up the phone and called Robert James, our very diligent finance director; he said Robert come in here; we got an important business; Robert was the finance director; of course, he comes in Michael office; all files in hand as if we have an important business meeting.”

“He  said you are a practising Christian; Prophet Abraham you believed in him; he said of course; I did; he said  about the story of sacrifice and the direction of Prophet Abraham He said  absolutely; Now is the crux of the question; Robert which son? Ismael or Issac? Well Robert said We Christian we believe it was Issac; he turned round to me and said you are a politicians we believe in democracy; two to one; we are right we are right. I share that ladies and gentlemen,” said Lord Ahmad.

It is about Faith, about

People coming together

Lord Ahmad said, “Because it is about faith, it is about community; how people work together; it is our people together; so whether you are in the city of London or in the beautiful setting at the grand mosque at the Regents Park; it is about people coming together; sharing beliefs; sharing ideals; we have  differences; we have  different perspectives;  different interpretations; but the real strength of humanity; that is how we come together unity; and that is, in essence that Dr Ahmad was saying; when we look at the holy month of Ramadan, we come together as communities; it’s about sharing, long term.”

Ramadan is a time of Reflection

Lord Ahmad also said, “Ramadan is a time of reflection; it is time of prayer; we have our challenges; Ahmad, Siddiqa and myself get up early in the morning before the crack of  dawn, we have sahoor in the morning that we can show you we do; fill our bodies with right nutrition trying to avoid spicy foods as we are talking earlier; just at the point when you finish the prayer, read the holy Qur’an and I can bear you can probably have an hour and a half before you get up next call of the day. Half passed Five we have to say mami dadi it is morning time; it is about family as well; it is about community. And that’s why Ramadan defined.”

It is the reflection of bringing together

Reflection of Ramadan

Lord Ahmad also mentioned about the reflection of Ramadan of bringing together. He said, “The holy Prophet of Islam, Prophet Muhammad (sallallu wa sallam) peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: The true definition of a person is that he desires for himself what he should desire for all. That is a reflection of the hospitality that we receive here, at the mosque today. It is the reflection of bringing together, is the reflection of Ramadan that community, of whatever the faith belief you may be; be together. Therefore I am ready be honoured to come board in this evening.”

No better virtue than true neighbourliness,

true humanity friendship, true affection

Thanking Dr Ahmad for his kind invitation, Lord Ahmad said, “I am sure I speak for each and every one of your guests here in this evening. We are entirely grateful for your hospitality and there is no better virtue true neighbourliness, true humanity friendship, true affection and love than breaking the bread you do later this evening.”  

H.E. Rawdha Al Otaiba Talked

about breaking barriers of intolerance

H.E. Rawdha Al Otaiba, Deputy Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates also spoke on the need to break barriers of intolerance and work towards a global peace initiative. She said, I am delighted and honoured to be amongst you here at this wonderful gathering to share with you today’s breaking of the fast Iftar in these wonderful surroundings of the London Central Mosque & Islamic Cultural Centre. Notably what could be more fitting than a place of worship to invite people of all faiths to join us to live the joy experienced by more than 1.5 billion Muslims around the world during this blessed month of Ramadan? Indeed Ramadan is about not only food or lack thereof, but most importantly about the values it instils in us Muslims, of which is tolerance.”

In UAE, tolerance is a way of life

And not a concession

Speaking about tolerance in the UAE, H.E. Al Otaiba mentioned, “In the UAE, tolerance is a way of life and not a concession. We pride ourselves on the achievement of creating one of the most tolerant societies in the world. Our nation, of which >85% are non-Nationals is now a template of co-existence of over 200 nationalities from different race, religions and abilities. Today there are over 1 million of Christians and many more who are Jewish, Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs who have made the UAE their home, benefitting from a Constitution as old as the Union that guarantees freedom of worship to all faiths.”

Pope Francis’ visit to the UAE

Referring to the Pope Francis’ visit to the UAE, Ambassador Al Otaiba said, “Pope Francis made history early this year when he visited the UAE, conducting an open air mass attended by 180,000 people. It was the first time a pope had ever visited the Arabian Peninsula. The visit was the perfect answer to extremists who claim other religions are not welcome in the land of Islam’s founding.”

Tolerance is also about Acceptance

H. E. Al Otaiba said, “Tolerance for us is also about acceptance. In March this year the UAE hosted the Special Olympics World Games 2019 for the first time in the Middle East North Africa since the movement’s founding over 50 years ago. The games highlighted the integral part of local, national and regional plans to expand opportunities for people of determination in line with the UAE’s shared vision of a unified and inclusive society.”

Rabbi Herchel Gluck OBE

Rabbi Herchel Gluck, Chairman of the Muslim-Jewish Forum also spoke on the occasion.

Dr. Lakshmi Viyas

Dr. Lakshmi Viyas, President Hindu Forum of Europe, chair of Education Hindu Forum of Britain & member of the Religious Council of the UK also spoke at the event.

Javid Rana

Javid Rana, chair of the Association of Muslim Police started with saying Happy Ramadan and he just liked to say: “I am happy to be here for two reasons; the first reason is I am Muslim and the second reason is I am a police officer. It is brilliant to see so many different faiths are here and I would like to thank the mosque the excellent ongoing engagement work with the community. So well done.”

Rana also mentioned, “We find in the Metropolitan Police Service which said in order to effectively serve the public we need to become part of the public; by consent that means we listen to act which tell us and learn and work together that is really really important.”

Rana wanted give some messages. He said, “the first one is about tackling crime; there is absolutely no space for hate crime in the society, the disease we need to eradicate we need to work together; if anyone is victim of hate crime and it is because of your faith, it could be colour, it could be other protective characteristics, please please come forward and report it.”

“Secondly London is such a multicultural place to work in, to live in and now you know that. It is a melting pot. We called it in the world. The police needs to represent every corner of the world.”

John Parry

John Parry, Director of Interfaith Centre, said, “In 1993 an archaeological started in a village somewhere between Jerusalem and Bethlehem. They dug and found the building went back to century. Between the year 500 and 800 that building had been used by both Muslims and Christians together as they remember this was the place where Mary was sent before she went on to give birth to Jesus in Bethlehem. And in that single building also they found there was a place where Christians could worship and there was a place where Muslims could say their prayers in one single building.”

“Move on between 792 and 1492 in the Iberian peninsula that was a time when people were living together; when Jews, Christians and Muslims lived together side by side. Where we have gone wrong? That’s the question,” asked John Parry.

John Parry lamented, “It is sad that we are living at a time when evil people try to keep us apart. I am grateful to Dr Ahmad and the Regents Park Mosque for the way you bring people together and from my point of view as the Director of the Interfaith Centre; from my point of view as a Christian I join with you in determining to gather people together; so they understand and stand together. That, I belief, is the way of God.”  

Iraq Past Present and the Future

Iraq – Past Present and Future

Dr. Mozammel Haque

Conservative Foreign Commonwealth Council (CFCC) Organised an event entitled “Iraq-Past, Present and Future” on 29 April 2019 at the House of Parliament; Committee Room G.

Opening Address by

Lord Sheikh

Lord Sheikh addressed the Lords, Members of Parliament and the Ambassador.

Iraq’s Culture and Heritage

Lord Sheikh begin by making a point about Iraq’s culture and heritage.  Iraq is a very ancient nation and is recognised as the earliest Cradle of Civilisation.

Iraq – Earliest Cradle of Civilization

Lord Sheikh said, “Historically known as ‘Mesopotamia’, the region’s people became the first bankers, created the wheel, the plough and the first written alphabet. The area has been a home for successive civilisation since the 6^th millennium BC. It was in Iraq that mankind began to read, write create laws and also live in cities. The two major rivers, Tigress and Euphrates, run south through Iraq, which provides Iraq with significant amounts of fertile land. Iraq served humanity by creating and adopting many advanced techniques of farming and trading as well as adopting a rich culture of poetry and literature. The success of this civilisation led to the modern world we experience today.”

Present History of Iraq

Speaking about the present history of Iraq Lord Sheikh said, “Iraq has a population of 37 million and its major languages are Arabic and Kurdish. Iraq has had a complex modern history which I am sure you are all aware of. Unfortunately, Iraq has been a battleground for competing forces following US-led invasion which ousted Saddam Hussein in 2003. I feel that the Iraqis have made significant progress. The country has approved a new constitution and held successful elections for Parliament and provisional governments. The progress in peace is perhaps exemplified by the fact that Iraq’s oldest Christian town called Hamdaniya has just celebrated Easter again after the defeat of Isis.”

Six important steps going forward

Lord Sheikh mentioned six important steps moving forward. He said, “I believe there are six important steps going forward now that there is peace in Iraq. These are:

1) Continued stability;

2) Reconstruction;

3) Reconciliation between the Shia and Sunni communities;

4) Advancement of education;

5) Development of trade;

6) Advancement of tourism.

In regard to reconciliation between Shias and Sunnis I would like to emphasise that people have asked me whether I am a Shia or Sunni, my answer always is that I am a Muslim.”

Iraq’s Diaspora in the UK

Lord Sheikh mentioned about the Iraq’s Diaspora in the United Kingdom. He said, “I strongly believe in the concept of Ummah. Iraq’s diaspora in the United Kingdom is doing very well. I have met some members of the Iraqi diaspora who are doing well in every walk of life in the UK. I feel that we should encourage the diaspora to strengthen and expand the trade and other ties between the UK and Iraq. I may add that I am actively involved in promoting trade between the UK and overseas countries and I am undertaking some effective activities to achieve this. In fact, over the last year, I have been a speaker at trade conferences held in London to strengthen and maintain trade relations between the UK and the following countries: Morocco, Nigeria, Papa New Guinea, Sudan, Tunisia and Ethiopia.”

Lord Sheikh felt that the country has huge potential and he wanted to talk more about increasing our trade with Iraq.

Attraction to investors

Speaking about the investment opportunities in Iraq, Lord Sheikh mentioned, “I feel that due to Iraq’s increasing stability, it is an excellent investment location in the Middle East. Iraq is the 43^rd largest export economy in the world. The top exports of Iraq are: Crude and refined petroleum, gold, petroleum gas and tropical fruits. Iraq’s top imports are: jewellery, packaged medicaments, poultry meat, cars and gold. Iraq’s real GDP is estimated to have grown by 0.6 percent in 2018 and the non-oil economy grew at 4 percent. Indeed, Iraq’s growth is expected to spike to 8.1 percent in 2020 and non-oil growth is expected to remain positive. Iraq’s attraction to investors is strengthened by the fact that Iraq has signed several trade agreements with its neighbours which has given its economy a boost.”

Regional hub for trade and investment

Speaking about Iraq’s future, Lord Sheikh said, “looking to Iraq’s future as a strategic commanding basis and regional hub for trade and investment.” He said, “Our support for Iraq will therefore be £2 billion. This will help to provide jobs, increase infrastructure capability and promote Iraq’s economic development and ability to address the needs of Iraqi citizens. This will promote Iraq’s economic development and nation building.”

Education and Cultural Links

Lord Sheikh said that he was not only keen to promote trade links but also educational and cultural links. “Education is extremely important to me. Six months ago, I spoke at a conference which aimed to address higher education in Iraq. I would like to see more educational links between the two countries. I would also like to make the point clear that links between universities can have an invaluable impact of the development of students.”

Tourism

Lord Sheikh also spoke about tourism. He said, “In Iraq, there are Muslim shrines and mosques which are visited by thousands of Muslims from the UK every year. We should however encourage more Muslims as well as non-Muslims to visit the country.

We should therefore promote tourism of every type. Iraq is indeed very keen to promote its culture in the UK. I did in fact attend an exhibition organised by His Excellency, the Ambassador, to show the beautiful buildings and areas of Iraq.”

The Ambassador of Iraq

H.E. Dr. Salih Husain

Addressing the gathering in the House of Parliament, the Ambassador of Iraq first of all gave a political picture of his country. He first gave a picture of the most recent general elections held in May 2018.

Results of General Elections

Dr. Salih Husain said, “I shall begin with the results of the most recent general elections; the general elections were held on May 2018 and led to the following parliamentarian representation: Saeroun 54 seats, 2- Al-Fatih 47 seats, 3- Al-Nasir 42 seats, 4- State of the Law 26 seats, 5- KDP 25 seats, 6- Al-Wataniya 21 seats, 7- Al-Hikma 19 seats, 8- PUK 18 seats, 9- Al-Qarar 11 seats  and other small parties collectively 57 seats. Under the quota system, the Christians got 5 seats, and Chabak, Yazidi, Subbi and Faili got 1 seat each.”

“The 2018 general elections have shown positive outcomes like: Formation of cross-sectarian blocs like Al-Nasir, headed by the former Prime Minister Haidar Al-Abadi. His bloc has achieved high votes in the Sunni dominated city of Mosul. Formation of alliances between Islamists and Liberals. The 2018 parliament has saw 70% new members, which reflects the voters’ will for change. The Speaker of the Parliament and the President of the state were both elected freely by the members of the parliament,” the Ambassador of Iraq mentioned.

Positive Outcomes of the elections

Speaking about the formation of Iraqi government after the general elections, Iraqi Ambassador said, “The 2018 parliament is divided into 2 main blocs each consisting of Shia, Sunni and Kurds members. The elected Speaker of the Parliament Mohammad Al-Halbousi is 35 years old, and this represents a turn in the old mentality towards giving the youth more participation in decision making and governance. The Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi is an independent politician and he is not affiliated with a specific political party, hence all political parties represented in the parliament have voted confident to his cabinet.”

Kurdish Participation in the Government

Speaking about the Kurdish participation in the government, the Iraqi Ambassador mentioned, "Following the Referendum and its aftermath, the Kurds have effectively participated in this government with 3 ministers. The Ministerial Program Agenda voted by the Parliament has pledged to find a breakthrough for the disputed issues between Baghdad and the Iraqi Kurdistan Region. On the disputed issues between the federal government and the Iraqi Kurdistan regional government, the federal budget law has dealt with some financial issues like: 75 m$ will be allocated to the electricity projects in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq from the JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) total loan estimated at 756 m$, approximately 10% of the federal loan will be allocated to the KRI. 1.6 m$ to the KRI from the 430 m$ loan from the World Bank.”

The Iraqi Ambassador also mentioned, “The Federal Government is committed to pay the dues of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, including the compensation of the employees of the KRI. The Federal Government and the provinces of the Kurdistan region are obliged to transfer revenues to the state treasury when there is an increase in the exported quantities of oil. Despite the surge given to the new Iraqi Government, the ministers of Defence and Interior are still to be appointed due to the lack of political consensus on proper candidates for both positions.”

Programme of Iraqi Government

Iraqi Government wants to achieve following main tasks, mentioned Dr. Husain and added, “The Ministerial Program Agenda of the Iraqi Government 2018 – 2022 vowed to work on 5 main tasks as follows:

“Completion of building the foundations of the federal state and its republican parliamentary system, through the activation of the Constitution and the internal laws of the ministries, restructuring of the Council of Ministers, development of governance systems, strengthening the national cohesion and preventing the exploitation of freedoms and damaging the public right.

The rule of law and the strengthening of internal and external security, through combating terrorism, law enforcement, combating corruption and public waste, promoting reliance on smart and electronic systems and strengthening external relations away from axis policy.

Optimum investment of energy and water resources.

The Iraqi Government will achieve this through: Accelerating the increase and maintenance of export outlets of crude oil through Turkey and Jordan as a strategic and economic necessity,” mentioned the Iraqi Ambassador.

Services and Human Community Development

About this, the Ambassador of Iraq mentioned how the Iraqi Government will achieve this. He mentioned this will be achieved through:

Education: “The Ministry of Education continues to build schools in partnership between the public and private sector. To provide genuine twinning for Iraqi universities with international universities. Encouraging the establishment of private universities with international standards and qualities, and introducing distance education,” Dr. Husain mentioned.

Rebuilding Health Centres: “Accelerate the assessment of the health situation of the displaced and improve the health services provided to them, and to prioritize the rebuilding of health centres in the governorates that were damaged during the recent military operations,” he said.

Assist Iraqi Youth: “Develop practical measures to immunize and assist Iraqi youth to discover their abilities, competencies and connections and to stay away from harmful behaviours, habits and health. Reviving the work of the youth institution in the task of organizing and supporting young people to practice their hobbies in different fields cultural, artistic, scientific and sports. Motivating outstanding talents each in its own field of specialization, and encouraging the culture of voluntary work in the social, national and humanitarian issues for the development of youth capabilities. Working with international and local organizations and the international community to secure the return of the displaced people to their towns and villages with a fixed timetable to be completed in a period of two years,” the Iraqi Ambassador mentioned.

Promoting Children’s Theatre: “Promoting the children's theatre and the production of plays and various events to young people, such as visits to diverse areas of Iraq, museums, scouting and sports activities to develop their sense of patriotism,” Dr. Husain said.

Promoting tourism: “Promoting tourism and facilitating the entry of tourists into Iraq in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior,” the Ambassador said.

Strengthening the economy

The Iraqi Ambassador Dr. Salih Husain also mentioned how the Iraqi government will strengthen economy “through promoting the principle of "made in Iraq", and projects made with "Iraqi hands", and to reduce imports and encourage exports, and restore confidence in ourselves and our experts and universities to implement the projects.”

He also said, “We will seek foreign expertise whenever needed but the priority is to invest in our graduates, youth and unemployed and develop our expertise and our economy. Monitor internal and external debt and prevent it from exceeding specific levels, and linking the internal and external debt to investment projects and self-generating values and wealth projects.”

“Open the door for foreign investment in the field of transformative and heavy industries and encouraging international brands to manufacture their products partially or entirely in Iraq. Establishment of the youth employment project and encourage them to establish small and medium sized companies and offering easy banking facilities with the aim of reducing unemployment and contribute to the overall development of the country,” said the Ambassador of Iraq.

Current investment environment in Iraq

The Ambassador of Iraq Dr. Husain also highlighted the current investment environment in Iraq.  He mentioned, “The current government has been more certain about the importance of reforms which is a priority in its agenda besides the focus of the reconstruction plan to rebuild the fundamental infrastructure sectors including Electricity, Health, education and Industry. Diversifying the economy and promoting the industrial sector run in parallel lines which need the engagement and the experience of our friends from the industrial countries especially the UK.”

He also said, “Iraq’s economy is transforming into a new level, it is becoming more privatized, which promotes, encourages and welcomes Investments. Iraq is trying to attract foreign investors through a review and modification of legislations and previous laws, and the formation of the supreme council for combating corruption is one further step in this direction.”

“Investment opportunities found in Iraq today from Dohuk in the north to Basrah in the south vary in terms of type, size, scope, sector, and purpose. The door is wide open for all investors who wish to invest in Iraq. Iraq is characterized by having numerous features that would attract capitals and investments, due to the availability of natural resources like Oil, Gas, Minerals, Lands, and Human resources, as well as the large size of the Iraqi market and the geographic position which creates opportunities for production, import and export,” Dr. Husain mentioned.

Golden Investment Incentives

The Ambassador of Iraq Dr. Husain invited everyone to “think of Iraq as one of the important places where untapped investment opportunities are available in various fields and were each sector has a crucial need for investment,” the Ambassador said and added, “Moreover, there are golden Investment Incentives and our real desire is to receive and welcome you in Iraq.”

Question and Answer session

There were very interesting Questions & Answers session where many questions were asked and many comments were made. I am going to conclude with the comments made by Mr. Peter Friedman, Vice President, Conservative Foreign and Commonwealth Council who said, “Much of what is taken for granted today, especially in the fields of mathematics and medicine, can be traced back to the work of Arab scholars well over a thousand years ago. The outstanding contribution of Iraq to this very important work deserves to be given prominence and I was delighted to have the opportunity to do so in the presence of the Iraqi Ambassador.”

At the conclusion of the meeting, Mr. Peter Friedmann presented a gift to the Ambassador of Iraq, H. E. Dr. Salih Husain.

All must unite against terror and extremism says Lord Sheikh

Interfaith Meeting in the House of Parliament

All must unite against terror and extremism – Lord Sheikh

Dr. Mozammel Haque

An Interfaith meeting, held in the House of Lords, Westminster, on Monday, 29 April, 2019, was organised by Lord Sheikh, Peer of the House of Lords in partnership with the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in the UK, Manisha Gunasekera, in remembrance of the victims of the Easter Sunday terror attacks in Sri Lanka. It was attended by Members of the House of Lords, Members of Parliament, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, leaders and Sri Lankan Diaspora.

Lord Sheikh welcoming the gathering

Minute’s silence observed

Lord Sheikh asked the gathering “to be upstanding, to observe a minute’s silence to mark the victims of the Sri Lankan attacks. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Our prayers and thoughts go to the relatives of the deceased persons and those who have been injured. May God Almighty bless the souls of the deceased and restore health to the people who have been injured.”

Friendship with Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans

Lord Sheikh disclosed his friendship with Sri Lanka and the Sri Lankans.  He mentioned, “I have met the leadership of the country and built connections with the present and previous High Commissioners as well as the Sri Lankan diaspora in the UK.”

“I was indeed devastated and very upset by the unhuman and cruel attacks on churches and hotels resulting in deaths, injuries and carnage.  On Easter Monday, I telephoned Her Excellency, Manisha Gunasekera and subsequently wrote to her.  I also went to the Sri Lankan High Commission to sign the Book of Condolences,” mentioned Lord Sheikh.

We must stand by Sri Lankans in times of tragedy

Lord Sheikh also said, “We must stand by our Sri Lankan friends in times of tragedy and, in fact, at all times.  We must all totally condemn the actions of the perpetrators and what they have done should not result in any division or animosity within the communities in the UK, Sri Lanka and in fact, throughout the world.

Lord Sheikh called for unity and solidarity

against extremism and terrorism

Lord Sheikh called for unity and solidarity against extremism and terrorism. He said, “We must all unite and join hands to face evil and establish solidarity against bigotry, extremism and terrorism of any sort wherever it may occur. I understand that the Metropolitan Police Counter-Terrorism command has sent a team of specialist officers to help with security and intelligence activities. I also understand that family liaison officers are in Sri Lanka to support families of British victims.”

Totally against the principles of Islam

Lord Sheikh mentioned that it seems that the perpetrators of these evil actions are Muslims who belong to a group called NTJ.  What these people have done is totally against the principles of Islam. They are absolutely wrong and are misled in their beliefs and actions.”

Lord Sheikh said, “Islam is indeed a religion of peace and does not allow any form of suicide attack or terrorist activity. It is written in the Holy Quran “Whoever kills an innocent person it is though he has killed all mankind, and whoever saves a life it is as though he has saved all mankind.”

“I would like to emphasise that Muslims regard Christians as people of the book. The books of Allah are the Holy Quran, the Torah, the Gospel of Jesus and the Psalms of David. The Roman Catholics pay a great deal of reverence to Mary, Mother of Jesus,” said Lord Sheikh.

A chapter entitled Sura Maryam in the Qur’an

Lord Sheikh also mentioned, “I would like to state that in the Holy Quran, there is a chapter titled ‘Sura Maryam’ which means ‘Chapter on Mary’. This chapter refers to the birth of Jesus by Maryam. Maryam or Mary, the mother of Jesus, is regarded by the Muslims as one of the most righteous ladies in the Islamic tradition. In the Holy Quran, no other lady is mentioned more times than Maryam.”

Jihad does not mean killing innocent people.

Lord Sheikh said, “If the perpetrators are under the fallacy that they are waging jihad when they committed these evil actions, I would say that this is not jihad, as jihad does not mean that you kill innocent people.  If the perpetrators were helped by Isis, then I would like to say that I am totally against what Isis say and do.”

ISIS’s evil ideology is totally

against the principle of Islam

Lord Sheikh said the ISIS’s evil ideology is totally against the principle of Islam. He mentioned, “Their evil ideology is totally against the principle of Islam. Isis has to a very large extent been defeated in Iraq and Syria, but we must bear in mind that their evil ideology is still prevalent, and we must combat this evil ideology whenever or wherever it manifests. If these acts in Sri Lanka were a revenge for the New Zealand massacre, then I believe that this was totally out of order as two wrongs do not make a right.”

Not in my name

Lord Sheikh emphasised that what has happened in Sri Lanka was not in my name.

Promoting interfaith dialogue

and fostering harmony

Lord Sheikh is actively involved in promoting interfaith dialogue and fostering harmony between people. He said, “I am also involved in combatting radicalisation and extremism. I have prepared reports on these subjects and spoken at various mosques and centres. In fact, I was speaking last Saturday at the Islamic Cultural Centre and London Central Mosque on Muslim issues.”

Lord Sheikh added, “I am working with Mak Chishty to set up an initiative to combat radicalisation and extremism worldwide. I would like to say that I am very concerned about the ill treatment of Christians around the world.”

After the welcoming address by Lord Sheikh, the High Commissioner of the Socialist Democratic Republic of Sri Lanka, Her Excellency Manisha Gunasekera addressed the event.

Address of the High Commissioner

of Sri Lanks H.E. Manisha Gunasekera

On this occasion, The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, H.E. Manisha Gunasekera addressed the audience. She addressed The Bishop of Westminster, The Most Venerable Clergy, The Lord Sheikh, The Lord Ahmad, Lords, Ladies, MPs, Ladies and Gentlemen.

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Terror Attacks in Sri Lanka

Her Excellency said, “We are gathered here today to remember the over 250 victims who lost their lives, and the over 500 people who were injured in the most heinous of multiple terror attacks that targeted Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, the holiest of days for the Christian community.”

Unprecedented – one of the deadliest terror attacks

H.E. Manisha Gunasekera mentioned, “Among the over 40 foreign nationals who lost their lives, were those from the UK, the US, Spain, Turkey, Portugal, the Netherlands, Japan, Denmark, India, China, Bangladesh, Australia and Saudi Arabia.  The sheer scale, magnitude and precision of the attacks were unprecedented, and lead to their categorization as one of the deadliest terror attacks of our times.”

Global condemnation of this carnage

She said, “While the world’s spotlight is on Sri Lanka at this moment in coming to terms with and in addressing this tragedy, it also highlights the growing terrorist threat to secular, democratic states; as well as the rapidly transforming international nexus between terrorism and radicalization today.  There has been global condemnation of this carnage, and global recognition of the need for concerted action to combat this threat.” 

Religions peacefully co-existed in this island

H.E. Manisha Gunasekera mentioned, “Freedom of religion is fundamental to our freedoms today, and religions have happily and peacefully co-existed in our island nation since time immemorial.  While being a predominantly Buddhist country, Sri Lanka’s very fabric and identity is multi-faith.   The terrorists therefore, while targeting the Christian community, also targeted the very multi-faith, multi-cultural nature of being Sri Lankan.”

Embrace the very multi-faith message

of universal love and loving kindness

“All people of Sri Lanka have risen in solidarity with the victims and the Christian community at this moment of tragedy.  To give into messages of hatred and division at this time would be to give into the perpetrators of this heinous crime.  We therefore embrace the very multi-faith message of universal love and loving kindness in response to this tragedy.  The British Sri Lankan diaspora in the UK stands together, united in all their faiths, supporting the victims of this tragedy, in solidarity with Sri Lanka,” said Gunasekera

The High Commissioner Manisha Gunasekera expressed her gratefulness to “the UK Government and to the political leadership of the UK for the support and solidarity extended to Sri Lanka at this challenging time,” said Manisha and added, “I thank Lord Sheikh for organizing this multi-faith meeting which provides us with a moment for prayer and reflection together.”

Sri Lankan High Commissioner also thanked all “for coming together today in solidarity, brotherhood and sisterhood. As per Buddhist practice, the purpose of religion is to control oneself, not control others.  Herein lies the very essence of the freedom of religion.”

Lord Bourne’s Speech

Lord Nick Bourne of Aberystwyth, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Minister for Faith and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Wales, said, “I am deeply saddened by the attacks which took place on Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka.”

He mentioned, “The Communities Secretary, the Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, has written an open letter to all Sri Lankan communities in Britain, expressing our condolences and reaffirming our commitment to a diverse and united Britain.”

Lord Bourne also said, “These cowardly attackers targeted Christians on their most holy day, in what should have been places of sanctuary.  They also attacked people who were going about their daily lives – families having breakfast and workers going about their daily routines.”

Speaking about Sri Lanka as a country, Lord Bourne mentioned, “Sri Lanka is, like many here, a country I hold dear.  I have only ever been met with warmth and kindness when I have been there. And it is with warmth and kindness that we must return to – to each other as we offer comfort and support.”

Lord Bourne said, “We cannot let terrorists divide us and force us to live in fear or hatred.  We must be better than that. We will continue in our efforts to bring communities together, to build understanding and mutual respect.”

Press Release

Followings are the Press Release issued by the High Commission of Sri Lanka, London, on 1^st of May, 2019. It said, “Members of Parliament, faith leaders and Sri Lankan diaspora deplore Sri Lanka terror attacks as ‘not in our name’ and propound universal loving kindness and solidarity at inter-faith meeting in UK Parliament.”

It also said, “UK Members of Parliament, faith leaders and the British Sri Lankan community leaders deplored the Easter Sunday terror attacks in Sri Lanka, condoled with the victims’ families, and propounded universal loving kindness at an inter-faith meeting held in the House of Lords, Westminster on Monday 29 April 2019.  The interfaith meeting was organised by the Lord Sheikh, Member of the House of Lords in partnership with the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in the UK Manisha Gunasekera, in remembrance of the victims of the Easter Sunday terror attacks in Sri Lanka.”

The press  release also mentioned, “High Commissioner Manisha Gunasekera in her address observed that the world’s spotlight is on Sri Lanka at this moment, in addressing this tragedy, which also highlights the growing terrorist threat to secular democratic states as well as the rapidly transforming international nexus between terrorism and radicalisation today. She referred to the global condemnation of this carnage and the global recognition of the need for concerted action to combat this existential threat today. The High Commissioner emphasised that, while being a predominantly Buddhist country, Sri Lanka’s very fabric and identity is multi-faith. The terrorists, therefore, while targeting the Christian community, also targeted the very multi-cultural and multi-faith nature of being Sri Lankan. She commended the British Sri Lankan community of all faiths for standing in solidarity with Sri Lanka and the victims at this moment.  The High Commissioner extended her deep appreciation to Lord Sheikh for organizing this interfaith meeting which provided a much needed moment of prayer and reflection for everyone.”

“The Lord Nick Bourne of Aberystwyth, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Minister for Faith and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Wales, speaking on behalf of the members of the House of Lords, referred to the universal condemnation of attacks on faith in Sri Lanka as in other parts of the world, and the external links of such attacks.  He emphasised that ‘we must remain very clear that ‘this is not done in our name.’  Referring to the support extended by the UK political leadership across party lines to Sri Lanka in the face of this tragedy, he called for all faiths and communities to stand united and resolute against such attacks.  ‘As somebody who has visited Sri Lanka frequently, my heart goes out to the people of Sri Lanka,’ added Lord Bourne,” it was also added.

The press release also mentioned about Rt. Hon. Alistair Burt. It said, “The Rt Hon. Alistair Burt, former Minister for South Asia at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and former Minister of State for International Development, deplored the abuse of faith and lack of tolerance prevalent globally, and indicated that ‘an attack on one, is an attack on all’.  He emphasised the celebration of togetherness and unity as opposed to perpetuation of divisions, and appreciated his links with Sri Lanka.”

The press release also acknowledged and mentioned about those who spoke at the event and those who attended the event. It mentioned: The Most Venerable Bogoda Seelawimala Nayaka Thero, Chief Sangha Nayake of Great Britain; Mr John Wilson, Bishop of Westminster; Rev Hudson-Wilkin, Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons; Rabbai David Mason; Rev Father Sudham Perera, Chaplain of the Sri Lankan Catholic Sinhala Speaking Community; Krishan Kant Attri, Hindu Chaplain to the UK Army; Dr Ahmad Al Dubayan (Muslim Leader), the  Director-General of the  Islamic Cultural Centre & The Central London Mosque Trust; Imam Qasim and Mr Yousuf Al Khoei were among the faith leaders that addressed the gathering.  The Lord Dholakia OBE DL; The Rt Hon. Lord Swraj Paul; Virendra Sharma MP; Catherine West MP; Seema Malhotra MP and Afzal Khan MP, also addressed the gathering. Liz McInnes MP and Shadow Minister for South Asia; Christian Matheson MP, and UK Commonwealth Envoy Philip Parham were among those who attended the Meeting, along with members of the British-Sri Lankan community.