New Delhi: At the Global Peace Conference organised by the Indo-Middle East Cultural Forum (IMCF) at the India Islamic Cultural Centre here, former Union Minister for External Affairs Salman Khurshid emphasised the importance of fostering global harmony through people-to-people connections. Addressing diplomats and officials, he urged them to promote such exchanges to enhance mutual understanding.
Citing Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi as exemplary figures in peace-building, Khurshid highlighted their enduring legacies in non-violence and conflict resolution. He also reaffirmed India’s longstanding commitment to spreading messages of peace and humanity worldwide.
IMCF Director Dr. Anzarul Bari outlined the conference’s objective of promoting peace and global harmony. The event united prominent religious leaders, diplomats, politicians, and academicians to deliberate on pathways to a more peaceful world.
Key speakers included MPs Javed Ali and Moulana Mohibbullah Nadvi, former MPs Mohammad Adeeb and KC Tyagi, Jamaat-e-Islami Hind President Syed Sadatullah Husaini, Sarva Dharma Sansad & Mahamandaleshwar President Goswami Sushil Maharaj, former Ambassador Prof. KP Fabian, and South Africa High Commissioner Prof. Anil Sooklal.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Mazin Al Masood, Minister Plenipotentiary of the League of Arab States, Deputy Ambassadors Mohammad Jawad Husseni (Iran) and Odey Hatim Mohammad (Iraq), as well as representatives from embassies of Turkey, Qatar, Palestine, and Mauritius. Several distinguished professionals, including Shahid Siddiqui, Syed Najeeb Ali, Dr. Ashraf Iqlaque, and others, also participated.
The conference emphasised the importance of cultural exchanges, interfaith harmony, and diplomatic collaboration in building a more peaceful world. Speakers highlighted the need for sustained dialogue and collective efforts to address conflicts and promote mutual respect. Special awards recognised individuals and organizations committed to advancing peace.
The Mahatma Gandhi Global Peace Award 2025 was conferred on foreign ambassadors and diplomats, while the Nelson Mandela Global Peace Award 2025 honoured all MPs, religious leaders, and social activists present there for their contributions to peacebuilding.
The event concluded with a reaffirmed commitment to unity, tolerance, and collaboration among diverse communities. IMCF pledged to continue its mission of strengthening cultural ties and fostering global peace through dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect.
