ABU DHABI, 6th June, 2017 (WAM) — Chairman of the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr. Mohammed Matar Al Kaabi has emphasised that the UAE, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is an oasis of tolerance, co-existence and fraternity between all faiths under the rule of law, respect and noble values.He was speaking at an iftar banquet organised by the Al Anba Antonio Orthodox Coptic Cathedral Church in Abu Dhabi in the presence of Bishop Julius, the Personal Envoy of Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of Saint Mark, Egyptian Ambassador to the UAE, Wael Gad, clerics, pastors of the Cathedral, and officials from the Ministry of Tolerance, the Presidential Court and the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince’s Court, as well as businessmen and members of the Egyptian Women’s Association.Al Kaabi noted that the UAE leadership sponsors places of worship in the country based on its belief that worshipping and practicing religions are inalienable human rights that should be observed in a safe and reassuring environment under the rule of law, justice and respect for humanity. We practice Islam in the UAE just as Allah Almighty wants, without fanaticism and extremism, he said while praising Egypt as a unique role model of co-existence and fraternity among Muslims and Christians.Bishop Julius expressed appreciation of religious tolerance among the followers of the Coptic Church and all the Christians in the UAE. He described the Al Anba Antonio Orthodox Coptic Cathedral Church as more than a place of worship, saying it is a role model of love, tolerance and co-existence.The iftar banquet coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Cathedral.Praising the UAE’s efforts to support residents, he cited the recent introduction of a wills registry for non-Muslims in Abu Dhabi as an important move forward by H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.Bishop Julius also conveyed Ramadan greetings from Pope Tawadros II to President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and the people of UAE.