The importance of intercultural dialogues and interfaith meetings is becoming more pronounced as New Zealand increasingly becomes a plural society, Opposition Leader Phil Goff said.
“We must celebrate our cultural diversity and build on the strengths that immigrants bring to this country. New Zealand is a model for the rest of the world in promoting social and community cohesion,” he said, speaking at an annual Iftar dinner.
The Pearl of the Islands Foundation (PIF), an initiative of the small but well-knit Turkish community had organised the programme at the Sudima Auckland Airport Hotel on August 27.
Mr Goff said varied cultures and traditions not only enhanced the diversity of New Zealand but also added colour to its social fabric.
“Intercultural dialogues are an important avenue to promote goodwill and understanding,” he said.
Labour MP Dr Ashraf Choudhary, who was instrumental in instituting the annual event for the Turkish community three years ago, said that migration alone cannot make a society diverse.
“There must be a proper interaction among the people corresponding to various faiths, religions, cultures and traditions. Communities must come together, share their cultures, languages and experiences and foster unity. New Zealand is a model for peaceful coexistence but there is no room for complacency,” he said.
Chief Executive Dr Cihan Demirbas said that since its establishment as a charitable organisation in 2006, PIF has been pooling its strength to promote a variety of activities.
“These range from campaigns to support humanitarian causes and educational programmes to providing consultancy services to New Zealand and Turkish businesspersons. We share with pride our national, historic, religious and cultural values with other ethnic groups in New Zealand.
“PIF supports fundraising activities undertaken by the Turkish community in the country,” he said.
PIF Director and Intercultural Dialogue Platform Coordinator Kerem Caliskan said since its launch in 2008, the annual Iftar Dinner has been gaining strength with the support of a cross-section of the society.
“This year, Dr Choudhary co-hosted with us a VIP Dinner at the Grand Hall of Parliament in Wellington. Members of Parliament, Vice-Chancellors of Universities, leaders of various religions and faiths attended the event,” he said.
Labour MP Si’a William Sio and Human Rights Commission Adviser Rohan Jaduram were among the other speakers.
Dr Demirbas presented Dr Choudhary with the ‘Annual Dialogue Award’ for his contributions to the strengthening of realtionships among New Zealand communities. Dr Choudhary has announced his retirement from politics following the general election on November 26, 2011.
Photo :
Dr Cihan Demirbas presents the ‘Annual Dialogue Award’ to Dr Ashraf Choudhary at the Pearl of Islands Foundation Dinner in Auckland on August 27 (Pictures by Indian Newslink ©)
