PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has underscored the nation’s commitment to fostering dialogue among different faiths and religions, aiming to enhance mutual understanding, harmony, and co-operation.

During the launch of the United Nations Interfaith Harmony Week 2024 observances, on Thursday at ISKCON of Guyana Hare Krishna Study Centre, the Prime Minister emphasised that Harmony Week offers an opportunity for religious peace-building and countering conflicts and segregations.

According to a statement from the PM’s office, he reminded that Guyana was one of the first 29 countries to endorse the 2010 UN resolution establishing the event and said that the country recognises the resolution “as a testament to the imperative and continued need for such dialogue”.

Prime Minister Phillips also delved into the key tenets of the resolution, emphasising the crucial role of mutual understanding and interreligious dialogue in cultivating a culture of peace.

“More importantly, that resolution recognises the profound impact of conversations between diverse religious communities on creating a culture of peace. Today, I stand here to reaffirm Guyana’s commitment to this resolution’s tenets and emphasise why it is important and essential for the well-being of our country and the world at large,” he was quoted as saying.

Aligning with the government’s vision of “One Guyana,” he also emphasised that harmony and inclusiveness are pivotal to this vision. “Our Government, guided by the vision of ‘One Guyana,’ envisions peace and harmony among our people as necessary for our existence”.

The Prime Minister also spoke highly of religious tolerance in Guyana.

“As we witness prayers from various religious groups today, the spirit of mutual respect and tolerance evident in those outside those religions is heartening. It is a small but meaningful gesture that suggests we are already instilled with a spirit of understanding for one another,” he said.

Attendees were urged to recognise that the tenets of the resolution go beyond mere ideals, but serve as a road map for building a world where diversity is celebrated, understanding is paramount, and peace is the ultimate goal, the statement added.

The well-attended breakfast brought together religious leaders from various faiths, civil society representatives, members of the opposition, and members of the diplomatic community in a display of interfaith solidarity.