The Ethiopian Inter Religious Council has been announced as the winner of an international Peace Award in recognition of its contributions to establishing peace, mutual respect, and unity in Ethiopia.
Marking its 15th founding anniversary in Addis Ababa today with a vibrant celebration, the council received praise from a representative of the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers, who commended Ethiopia's ongoing peacebuilding efforts.
The representative noted that establishing the Ministry of Peace is a pioneering step that serves as a global model, demonstrating the nation's high-level focus and political commitment to peace. Emphasizing that the current global climate desperately requires peace, the representative stated that Ethiopia's experience will serve as a major example for other countries.
Recalling that Ethiopia is the Land of Nejashi and the historic host of the first Islamic migration (Hijra), the representative testified that the nation stands as a timeless symbol of social bonding, patience, and coexistence.
The Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers officially announced its decision to grant the honorary award in recognition of the council's effective peace initiatives. The award will be formally presented tomorrow at the African Union Hall during the network's annual conference, which is set to host 120 organizational representatives from 56 countries.
"We are deeply honored to hold this international consultative forum, which involves over a hundred members, here in Ethiopia, a peaceful land that serves as a model of social cohesion and mutual understanding," the representative stated.
This international network was established following a report by former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and actively works worldwide to enhance the vital roles of religious and traditional leaders in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
As previously noted by Minister of Peace Dr. Mohammed Idris, the contribution of the Ethiopian Inter Religious Council to national peace and unity has been exemplary.
