By Nesru Jemal – The government of Ethiopia does not only believe in religious freedom but also works to uphold the long-standing religious tolerance in the country, Good Governance and Reform Cluster Coordinator with the rank of deputy Prime Minister and Civil Service Minister, Muktar Kedir, said.
Muktar made the remark at a discussion forum jointly organized by the Ministry of Federal Affairs and Nejashi Ethio-Turkish International School and held on Saturday at the African Union Conference Hall in Addis Ababa. The discussion was focused on ways of upholding the long-lived religious tolerance and respect in Ethiopia.
While Ethiopians are known for their age-old religious tolerance and coexistence, lately, certain individuals have been working against peace under the disguise of religion, Muktar said. The organization of Saturday’s discussion forum would have its own contribution towards addressing the stated problem.
Minister of Federal Affairs, Dr. Shiferaw Teklemariam for his part said unlike previous regimes, the incumbent government has given legal protection to religious freedom and equality.
Ethiopia is a country where state and religion have been separated by law, he said, adding, the present-day generation should preserve the long-lived religious tolerance and pass it to future generations.
Secretary General of the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, Pastor Zerihun Degu said religious institutions in the country have a key role in maintaining the long-standing religious tolerance and respect among their followers.
Ethiopian Radio and Television Agency. (Addis Ababa)
