The gathering highlighted shared values of compassion, tolerance and mutual respect, with speakers emphasizing the role of faith communities in fostering harmony in society.
Speaking at the event, the UAE Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires, Mohammed AlKaabi, said the interfaith Iftar was an opportunity to bring together people from diverse traditions in the spirit of friendship and shared humanity.
“Your presence honors us, and it also gives this gathering its true meaning: coming together across traditions and backgrounds in a spirit of respect, friendship and shared humanity,” he said.
AlKaabi noted that the United Arab Emirates places strong emphasis on tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, values that shape its society and engagement with partners around the world.
“In the UAE, diversity is not simply acknowledged — it is embraced. People of many faiths and cultures live and work side by side, contributing to a society built on openness, compassion and unity,” the envoy noted.
He emphasized that Ramadan’s values of compassion, generosity, and reflection are especially important amid global uncertainties, and in light of recent tensions in the Middle East, he stressed the need for restraint and dialogue.
“Such times remind us how essential it is to protect human life, reject hatred and incitement, and uphold the principles of international law,” he added.
The diplomat also pointed to the growing relationship between the UAE and Rwanda, describing it as a partnership grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to progress and stability.
“We value Rwanda’s commitment to unity and resilience, and we look forward to further strengthening our cooperation in ways that benefit our peoples,” AlKaabi remarked.
The Guest of Honor, Marie Grâce Nyinawumuntu, Director General for Europe, Americas and International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, commended the initiative for bringing together people of different faiths.
She said Ramadan serves as a period of reflection, compassion and spiritual renewal, encouraging individuals to strengthen their faith and commitment to serving others.
“This evening is particularly meaningful because it brings together people of different faiths and backgrounds around one table,” she said.
Nyinawumuntu noted that Rwanda strongly values peaceful coexistence among religions, with different faith communities living side by side in mutual respect.
“This commitment to unity and reconciliation is rooted in our history and in our determination to ensure that faith becomes an instrument of peace, not division,” she added.
She also recalled Rwanda’s recent engagement with the Muslim World League, including the visit of its Secretary-General Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa from February 18 to 20, during which a scholarly seminar on peaceful coexistence highlighted Rwanda’s experience in unity and reconciliation.
Also addressing the gathering, the Mufti of Rwanda, Sheikh Musa Sindayigaya, emphasized that Ramadan is not only a time of fasting but also a period of spiritual reflection, self-discipline and compassion for others, particularly the vulnerable.
He said interfaith initiatives such as the Iftar reflect the true spirit of Ramadan by bringing together people from different religious traditions around shared values including respect for diversity and the pursuit of peace.
“As religious leaders, we carry a sacred responsibility to guide our communities toward harmony and tolerance rather than division and violence,” Sheikh Musa stated.
He also commended the UAE for its global efforts to promote tolerance and interfaith dialogue, noting that such initiatives strengthen not only diplomatic relations between nations but also the bonds among their peoples.
Participants concluded the evening by breaking the fast together, symbolizing a shared commitment to dialogue, understanding and cooperation for the common good. The event formed part of broader Ramadan observances aimed at encouraging compassion, solidarity and peace among communities.
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