By Mirjeta Hajzeraj
An interfaith dialogue roundtable is being held in Pristina.
The Mayor of Pristina, Përparim Rama, has stated that this moment of the interfaith dialogue roundtable in Pristina, which is the first of its kind in the region, is a special opportunity to reflect and collaborate on the essential values of Albanian society: interfaith coexistence and tolerance.
“At a time when the world is facing major challenges that threaten social cohesion and global peace, the Albanian model of religious harmony is a powerful example that shows how dialogue and understanding can build bridges and strengthen ties between people, despite religious and cultural differences,” Rama declared, according to the Telegraph.
He has asserted that peace is not just something to be expected or preached from the outside, but must become part of our lives and radiate in our daily actions and interactions.
“Our cities are a reflection of the collective consciousness we have and the values we embody. They are not just structures of concrete and steel, but reflections of the connections we build between us and what we want to see for the future. Imagine a city where every street, every building and every square is designed to reflect this philosophy of peace, where public spaces are open to all and encourage cooperation and courtesy,” he emphasized.
Rama further added that “Buildings should also not be simply functional structures, but should serve as mechanisms that strengthen our ties.”
“Peace, besides being an individual state, should also be manifested in the spaces we create. Let’s build ‘Mindfulness Parks’, technology-free spaces where people can focus and feel present in the present moment, connecting with nature and each other,” he said.
Rama claims that in this regard “we will create “Peace Laboratories” in schools, where students will learn conflict resolution and create projects for nature conservation. We will form “Citizen Co-Design Councils”, to give citizens the opportunity to contribute to the development of public spaces. Also, the initiative “What Would Love Do?” will make every city employee ask himself every day how he can bring love and peace to his work”.
“So, when we choose peace and love over fear and hate, we not only transform ourselves, but we also create a city and a society that is a model for the future. Therefore, let us collaborate to create a city where we can all thrive and be, together, the peace that rebuilds the world,” he said.
He stated that he is grateful for the religious leaders who gathered at the table of interfaith dialogue and who signed the pledge to cooperate for the common good of humanity.
– Source: Telegraph, telegrafi.com
