Alliance of Civilizations-Doha Qatar

Independent Films, Travel, Politics

Alliance of Civilizations opens its 4th Forum in Doha, Qatar - Report from UNTV.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon urged members of the Alliance of Civilizations Sunday to combat extremism and promote tolerance at a time when universal values are being tested in many parts of the world, particularly in countries undergoing political transitions.

“Again and again, we are reminded that our differences are nothing compared to our shared humanity,” Mr. Ban said in his remarks to the opening session of the fourth United Nations Alliance of Civilizations Forum in Doha, Qatar.

More than 2,000 participants, including political and corporate leaders, civil society activists and faith communities have gathered there to take part in the UN Alliance of Civilizations Forum (UNAOC) to discuss how to improve relations across cultures, combat prejudice and build lasting peace.

Ban stressed the Alliance's responsibility to prevent conflict and violence by promoting dialogue and laying the groundwork for mutual understanding.

The Secretary-General underscored the need to help nations in transition in the Middle East and North Africa who have been part of the so-called Arab Spring movement.

Ban told members of the Alliance that empowering women and youth, along with achieving sustainable development, should also be key areas of focus to ensure a positive future.

He also warned against potential new divides that impact development, and called on the Alliance to do its utmost to engage with students, families, activists and their religious communities.

During his visit to Doha, Mr. Ban also inaugurated an anti-corruption centre to promote transparency.

Tags

• Hillary Clinton
• security council
• Bangladesh
• Tunisia travel

Directors:

• Muhamed Sacirbey (UNTV)

Producers:

• Susan Sacirbey (UNTV)