Manama: The International Congress under the theme "Finding Beauty in the Other" commenced today at the Isa Cultural Centre, organized by the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia in partnership with the King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Coexistence (KHGC). The event, which will run until October 22, has attracted diplomats, academics, and religious figures globally. According to Bahrain News Agency, the congress was inaugurated by notable figures including Ali Abdullah Al Aradi, KHGC Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Monsignor Khaled Boutros Akasheh, Bureau Chief for Islam and Secretary of the Commission for Religious Relations with Muslims at the Vatican; Bishop Aldo Berardi, the Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia; Archbishop Eugene Martin Nugent, the Apostolic Nuncio for Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait; and Father Antonio Aurelio Fernández Serrano, President of Trinitarian International Solidarity. The event underscores the critical role of interfaith dialogue in fostering a peaceful and inclusive society. It aims to promote values of peace and respect among diverse religious communities to enhance mutual understanding. In his opening remarks, Al Aradi expressed pride in Bahrain's role in hosting the congress, reflecting the nation's commitment to tolerance and peaceful coexistence under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Al Aradi outlined the congress's goals, which include the exchange of ideas and cultural knowledge to raise awareness of common human values. These exchanges are intended to build bridges of understanding and encourage cooperation in areas like education and social development. The congress will also revisit the outcomes of His Holiness Pope Francis's visit to Bahrain during the "Bahrain Forum for Dialogue: East and West for Human Coexistence" convened from November 3-6, 2022. Discussions will focus on the "Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together" document, emphasizing the importance of fraternity and dialogue. Additionally, the congress will explore various topics through its sessions, such as the role of education in combating hate speech, the significance of peaceful coexistence across religions, and the impact of hate speech on peace. The importance of building bridges between cultures and religions to achieve sustainable peace will also be a key discussion point.