Six Imams and other Muslim religious leaders from a number of central African states arrived in Israel this week for a visit aimed at familiarizing them with Israel’s socio-political landscape; generating an interreligious, intercultural dialogue; and exploring possibilities for economic and agricultural development cooperation. Meetings with senior diplomatic and political officials as well as with the chief rabbis were part of the itinerary, as were visits to holy sites and visits to the cities Haifa and Acre, that serve as models for Jewish - Arab coexistence in Israel.
Furthering relations with moderate Muslim religious leaders is important at all times, but perhaps even more so these days, when African states and the Middle East are confronted by threats from Islamic jihadist terrorism.
At the end of the day, in the Middle East, in Africa and all over the world people and countries are seeking to peacefully coexist with one another. Israel is in many ways a shining model of coexistence between Jews, Muslims and Christians and amongst a myriad of Jewish cultures and traditions – all of whom converge in Israel.
Interreligious dialogues hold a central place in Israel’s diplomatic agenda, especially in Africa.Few platforms that facilitate peaceful coexistence and strengthen ties between peoples and communities are more efficient and compelling.
Portraying the various aspects of Israeli life and Jewish-Arab coexistence and showcasing Israel as a multifaceted and open society through this visit provided a valuable understanding of Israel through lenses the leaders never before experienced. As they return to their countries, they will no doubt be equipped with both knowledge and experience and a heightened motivation to strengthen Africa – Israel ties.