LOC22:17
19:17 GMT
VIENNA, Nov 14 (KUNA) -- Kuwait has donated USD 500,000 to the construction of the Islamic Cultural Center in the Croatian city of Sisak to meet the growing needs of the Muslim community there.
"This contribution by the State of Kuwait to this project reaffirms its leading and distinct role in supporting the philanthropy," Kuwait's Ambassador to Croatia Ayman Al-Adsani said in his speech at a ceremony held in Sisak to lay the foundation stone of the project.
"(It is also) emphasizing the role of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in supporting the humanitarian and charitable causes in all over the world, which was culminated in giving His Highness the title of 'Humanitarian Leader' for his efforts in the fields of philanthropy and development."
The ambassador underlined that the State of Kuwait, since its independence, has enacted for itself a consistent approach in its foreign policy, among its pillars is to support aid and development all over the world regardless of the geographical, religious and ethnic determinants, on the basis of its faith and conviction of the importance of international partnership.
"The contribution by the State of Kuwait to build this Islamic Cultural Center is part of Kuwait's global role in supporting issues related to Islam and Muslims all over the world," he added.
Al-Adsani noted that this contribution to the Islamic center in the Republic of Croatia is a confirmation of the status Croatia holds as being an exceptional model for integration and coexistence in Europe.
"This has become a rare trait at a time when many areas around the world are experiencing sectarian conflicts. We are certain that Muslims in the Republic of Croatia would play a positive national role in the enrichment of the Croatian and European identity," he concluded.
The ceremony was attended by Grand Mufti of the Republic of Croatia, Head of Islamic Center in the Republic of Croatia Dr. Aziz Hasanovic; the Head of Muslim Scholars in the country Sheikh Husain Kfazovic; the Mayor of Sisak City; several local officials. (end)
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