9th Awqaf Conference in Makkah Promotes Moderate Islam

Makkah, August 4, 2024 — The 9th Conference of Ministers of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs opened in Makkah on Sunday, bringing together Islamic figures from more than 60 countries to discuss efforts to promote moderation and combat extremism, as announced by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The conference, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, is titled “The Role of the Ministries of Islamic Affairs and Awqaf in Promoting the Principles of Moderation and Consolidating the Values of Moderation” and underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation among Islamic nations.

Context and Background

In a press conference held on Saturday ahead of the event, Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance and Executive Chairman of the Conference, emphasized that the ministry is dedicated to building bridges of communication with counterparts worldwide. These efforts, guided by Saudi Arabia’s wise leadership, aim to advance Islamic work, strengthen ties, and promote moderation while combating terrorism. The conference serves as a vital platform for enhancing Islamic solidarity and coordinating efforts in Dawah, Awqaf, and Islamic affairs.

Key Details

The conference will address a range of critical issues, including the cause of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and Palestine, matters related to Islamic Dawah, and the care of mosques. Participants will exchange experiences on appointing imams and preachers, as well as the programs and responsibilities assigned to them. The minister highlighted that the event seeks to promote the correct understanding of Islam according to the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). With representatives from over 60 countries, the conference provides a unique opportunity for collective action and shared learning.

Implications and Impact

This gathering reinforces Saudi Arabia’s leadership in the Islamic world and its dedication to fostering peace and understanding. By promoting moderation and rejecting extremism, the conference contributes to global efforts against terrorism and supports the stability of Islamic societies. The focus on Al-Quds and Palestine reflects the Kingdom’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, aligning with its historical and religious responsibilities. The exchange of best practices among ministries will enhance the efficiency of Islamic institutions worldwide, benefiting communities and promoting social harmony.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The conference aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of promoting a moderate and tolerant image of Islam, enhancing international cooperation, and supporting global peace. Under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia continues to play a pivotal role in uniting Islamic nations and advancing shared values. This event exemplifies the Kingdom’s commitment to building a brighter future based on mutual respect and collaboration.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the 9th Conference of Ministers of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs?

A1. It is a gathering organized by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, bringing together Islamic figures from over 60 countries to discuss promoting moderation and combating extremism.

Q2. Where and when did the conference take place?

A2. The conference was held in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, August 4, 2024, following a press conference on Saturday.

Q3. Who is the Executive Chairman of the conference?

A3. Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, serves as the Executive Chairman of the conference.

Q4. What is the theme of the conference?

A4. The theme is “The Role of the Ministries of Islamic Affairs and Awqaf in Promoting the Principles of Moderation and Consolidating the Values of Moderation.”

Q5. How many countries are participating in the conference?

A5. Islamic figures from more than 60 countries around the world are participating in the conference.

Q6. What are the main objectives of the conference?

A6. The conference aims to enhance Islamic solidarity, coordinate efforts in Dawah and Awqaf, and promote the correct understanding of Islam based on the Quran and Sunnah.

Q7. What specific topics are discussed at the conference?

A7. Topics include the cause of Al-Quds (Jerusalem) and Palestine, Islamic Dawah, care of mosques, and the exchange of experiences in appointing imams and preachers.

Q8. How does the conference address the Palestinian cause?

A8. The conference discusses the cause of Al-Quds and Palestine, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s continued support for the Palestinian people and their rights.

Q9. What is the role of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in this event?

A9. The Ministry organizes the conference and leads efforts to build bridges with other countries, aiming to advance Islamic work and promote moderation.

Q10. How does the conference promote moderation?

A10. By bringing together Islamic leaders to share best practices and reaffirm commitment to moderate teachings, the conference helps counter extremism and foster tolerance.

Q11. What is the significance of holding the conference in Makkah?

A11. Makkah is the holiest city in Islam, making it a fitting location for discussions on Islamic unity and cooperation among global Islamic affairs ministries.

Q12. Who gave the press conference before the event?

A12. Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al Al-Sheikh, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, gave the press conference on Saturday.

Q13. What does the minister say about building bridges?

A13. He affirmed that the ministry exerts efforts to build bridges of communication with Islamic affairs ministries worldwide to advance Islamic work and cooperation.

Q14. How does the conference combat terrorism?

A14. By promoting moderation and correct understanding of Islam, the conference contributes to efforts to combat terrorism and extremism globally.

Q15. What is the expected outcome of the conference?

A15. The conference is expected to strengthen cooperation among Islamic countries, enhance the role of Awqaf ministries, and promote moderation worldwide.

Q16. How does the conference support imams and preachers?

A16. It facilitates the exchange of experiences in appointing imams and preachers and discusses programs and responsibilities assigned to them.

Q17. What is the role of Awqaf in the conference?

A17. Awqaf (endowments) are central to the conference’s discussions, focusing on their management and role in promoting Islamic values and community welfare.

Q18. How does this conference align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A18. It aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting a moderate image of Islam, enhancing international cooperation, and supporting global peace and tolerance.

Q19. What message does the conference send to the world?

A19. It sends a message of unity, moderation, and peace, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in fostering dialogue and understanding among Islamic nations.

Q20. How can other countries benefit from this conference?

A20. Other countries can benefit by adopting best practices shared, strengthening bilateral ties, and collaborating on initiatives that promote moderation and counter extremism.

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