MINA: The annual Hajj conference of the Muslim World League (MWL) recommended building “bridges of communication and cultural dialogue” to show that Islamic civilization is inclusive and integrated.

The conference, titled “The Civilizational Dimensions of Islam,” urged Muslims to contribute to humanity’s needs in order to resolve its moral, social and environmental crises, and achieve moral superiority.

Unrest and chaos resulting in cruelty and extremism practiced by deviant Muslims do not reflect Islam’s true heritage, the forum said.

The conference stressed the importance of developing an Islamic discourse characterized by moderation, and recommended the use of social media to shed light on the objectives of Islamic civilization.

In addition, it urged the use of modern technology to maximize the benefit of Islam’s cultural heritage to serve modern societies, based on achieving a balance between spirituality and materialism.

Conference participants thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their efforts in serving Muslims, their great care for the Two Holy Mosques and the holy places, and their initiatives to serve pilgrims.

In his opening speech, Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah Al-Asheikh, the grand mufti of the Kingdom, chairman of the Council of Senior Muslim Scholars and chairman of MWL’s Supreme Council, said that Islamic civilization was established on foundations and components that qualified it to lead the world toward happiness and stability.

MWL Secretary-General Dr. Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa said that authenticity and modernity are the hallmarks of Islamic civilization. “A true Muslim is an ambassador for Islam, reflecting its values and principles,” he said.

The grand mufi also said: “Islamic civilization has always been characterized by its moderate approach, which does not tolerate extremism, injustice or prejudice. It is a balanced civilization that created a balance between the spiritual and material inclinations of man.”