Minister of Home Affairs has stated that mutual trust and friendship are needed to form a safe and peaceful community. He made the remarks while speaking at the ceremony held by the Minister of Home Affairs and Hoarafushi Island Council to celebrate International Friendship Day.
Speaking at the event in Hoarafushi, Haa Alifu Atoll, Minister Imran noted that Islam places importance on building friendships between neighbours, as it paves the way for a safe and peaceful community. The minister said that Islam encourages individuals to be respectful towards each other and refrain from harassment or causing harm to others and that those types of actions reveal those who are untrustworthy. He added that true friends are those who share each other’s happiness and sorrow and provide support during hard times.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Mohamed Mahir Easa was also in attendance at the event. In his speech, he advised individuals to refrain from actions that deteriorate their friendships. The home ministry and Hoarafushi council dedicated the International Friendship Day event to the elderly island residents. As such, they were presented with gifts and the opportunity to participate in various activities at the event.
The International Day of Friendship was proclaimed in 2011 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly with the idea that friendship between peoples, countries, cultures, and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities. The resolution places emphasis on involving young people, as future leaders, in community activities that include different cultures and promote international understanding and respect for diversity.
To mark the International Day of Friendship, the UN encourages governments, international organizations, and civil society groups to hold events, activities, and initiatives that contribute to the efforts of the international community toward promoting a dialogue among civilizations, solidarity, and mutual understanding, and reconciliation.