Nicosia, June 27 (QNA) - Qatar has underscored the importance of dialogue as a strategic choice for strengthening social cohesion and reducing division based on religion, identity and culture, a Qatari official has said.

Dr Ibrahim Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Board of the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue (DICID), made the remarks on Friday during a high-level conference on religious coexistence and diversity held in the Cypriot capital, Nicosia.

He said building cohesive societies required more than legislation and public policy, stressing the need to promote a culture of dialogue, mutual trust, and greater empowerment of educational, religious and community institutions.

Dr Al Nuaimi highlighted Qatar's experience in promoting interfaith and intercultural dialogue through the work of the DICID, including conferences, seminars, research and international partnerships.

He said these efforts contribute to strengthening shared citizenship, promoting peaceful coexistence and fostering acceptance of diversity as a source of cultural enrichment and human development.

The official warned that challenges related to hate speech, extremism and social polarization required close cooperation between governments, civil society organizations, religious leaders and educational and media institutions.

He added that responsible dialogue, education and awareness-raising were essential tools for building societal resilience and reinforcing peace and stability.

The conference, which concluded in Nicosia, brought together policymakers, experts and religious leaders to exchange best practices on managing diversity and strengthening social cohesion amid growing global concern over polarization and hate speech. (QNA)