Secretary-General of the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID) Dr. Zuhair Alharthi has participated in a high-level meeting of the Group of Friends of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) at the UN headquarters in New York.During his address, Alharthi emphasized the crucial role of interreligious and intercultural dialogue in fostering global peace and mutual understanding while shedding light on pressing global challenges that can be mitigated through constructive dialogue.The meeting, which took place alongside the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, included a review of UNAOC's efforts to strengthen coexistence and understanding among civilizations.Alharthi also held discussions with the High Representative for the UNAOC, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, to reinforce values of mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities. Their talks focused on bolstering collaboration between KAICIID and UNAOC i n promoting interreligious and intercultural dialogue.The two sides discussed preparations for the 10th UNAOC Global Forum, scheduled to be held in Portugal, the headquarters of KAICIID. The forum aims to enhance international efforts in intercultural dialogue and address common global challenges.Alharthi also discussed with key officials from various organizations ways to boost cooperation in fostering dialogue and tackling global challenges, aiming to enhance global security and stability.The secretary-general highlighted the significance of collaboration between KAICIID, the UN, and its affiliated offices in fostering a culture of peace and dialogue worldwide. This partnership is crucial, particularly in addressing the escalating extremism and hatred in some communities that perpetuate conflicts and wars.He emphasized that KAICIID prioritizes international partnerships to promote peace and dialogue among diverse religions and cultures. These collaborations are fundamental to KAICIID's strategy to a ccomplish its ambitious objectives.Source: Saudi Press Agency