UN adopts PH resolution on int’l interfaith understanding

Libran Cabactulan, the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations, said in a statement that the world body’s adoption of the resolution demonstrated “the importance attached by the region and other partners around the world to this important global initiative by the Philippines.” AFP file photo

A Philippine-sponsored resolution seeking interfaith and intercultural understanding and cooperation around the world has been adopted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Monday.

The resolution, with Pakistan as main cosponsor, was adopted during the UNGA’s 57th plenary session on Dec. 18 and was supported by 51 member states, the DFA said.

Libran Cabactulan, the country’s permanent representative to the United Nations, said in a statement that the world body’s adoption of the resolution demonstrated “the importance attached by the region and other partners around the world to this important global initiative by the Philippines.”

The Philippines, Cabactulan said, was in a distinct position to lead the effort given its “experience and expertise” in pushing for global cohesion as a multicultural society thriving on the diversity of our peoples’ faiths, cultures and traditions.”

The document, according to the foreign office, improves on earlier UN resolutions seeking to promote greater tolerance and harmony among people of different cultures and religions around the world during the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022).

The resolution also urges “relevant stakeholders… to disseminate their best practices and experiences on interreligious and intercultural dialogue” online for ready access among member states through a portal earlier established by the Non-Aligned Movement.