Pope Francis and Imam Ahmad al-Tayyeb of the Al-Azhar Sunni learning center called for unity and action to stop climate change, warning that conflicts make it impossible to protect the planet.
Religious leaders participated, via video, in the inauguration of the Faith Pavilion at the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), the first of its kind at a UN climate conference.
In his message, quoted by the Efe agency, the Pope stressed that this event testifies to “the will to work together” and that the world needs “alliances that are not against anyone, but in favor of all” and asked religions to join forces. Give an example, working together for global interests, the two most important now are peace and climate.
“As religious representatives, we must set an example to show that change is possible, to manifest respectful and sustainable lifestyles,” the Pope said, calling on nations’ leaders to ensure “that our common home is preserved.”
In a speech later read by his Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, the Supreme Pontiff called for opposition to the “delirium of voracious omnipotence that devastates the planet” and warned that “when man considers himself master of the world, he reifies himself.” and destroys even that which allows it to live.
Francisco also stressed that it is urgent to act in favor of the environment and stressed that this requires not only money, but also a change in the way of life, which includes education.
Wars and conflicts, he assured, damage the environment and divide nations, preventing a common commitment to safeguard the planet, the Pope stated, adding that a house is only habitable “for everyone” if a climate is established in it. of peace.
For his part, Ahmed al-Tayyeb, a leading figure in Sunni Islam, considered that the Pavilion of Faith at COP28, which will run until December 12 in Dubai, offers the possibility of “intensifying efforts to protect the common environment.” of an imminent, looming destruction. closer year after year.”
In Islamic logic, he explained, “human beings are responsible for the environment, as they are for themselves and their fellow human beings,” adding that Allah warned that if they harm the planet, “they will suffer diseases, calamities and disasters of proportional intensity.” to the corruption inflicted”.
The imam expressed outrage at “the horror of the relentless terrorist killing machine, wielded by the ruthless against the innocent citizens of the world, including men, women, children, babies and even those yet to be born.”
“I am equally concerned about the acts of violence, sabotage and destruction taking place in the occupied land of Palestine,” said Ahmad al-Tayyeb, who implored the world to end “these atrocious and criminal wars,” because if they persist ” No, we will not have a viable environment and a habitable climate for our children, nor will we have a viable environment and a habitable climate for our children or future generations.
Source: TSF
