Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, met with the Venerable Phraphawanathammaphinan Seesuk, Chief Monk of Nah Luang Temple from Udon Thani Province, Thailand, at the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi. This meeting underscores the UAE's ongoing dedication to fostering tolerance, cultural openness, and interfaith dialogue.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting took place in the presence of Sorayut Chasombat, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the United Arab Emirates. The ambassador highlighted the importance of this visit as a significant step in enhancing cultural and spiritual cooperation, especially as both nations commemorate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year.
The visit was part of a broader program organized by the Thai Embassy, which hosted a delegation of monks from Nah Luang Temple in the UAE from May 15 to 22, 2025. The initiative aimed to promote interfaith dialogue and share the spiritual and cultural values of the Buddhist tradition within a framework of mutual respect and global understanding.
During the meeting, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak warmly welcomed the Thai religious delegation and expressed appreciation for the strong ties between the Emirati and Thai peoples. He emphasized that such engagements with spiritual leaders worldwide are crucial for advancing global values of tolerance, coexistence, and peace, while fostering inclusive societies rooted in mutual respect.
Venerable Chief Monk Phraphawanathammaphinan Seesuk expressed his gratitude to Sheikh Nahyan for the warm reception and praised the UAE's leadership for its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and cultural harmony. He emphasized the importance of cross-cultural and interreligious engagements in strengthening global peace and understanding.
The event concluded with a group photo session, symbolizing the shared respect and human connection that both nations continue to cultivate through dialogue, cooperation, and cultural diplomacy.