Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Common Citizenship

[ 5 ] — OPENING CEREMONY — extremist ideologies generate violence which leads to a vicious cycle of terrorism. That is why we cannot neglect any violent act committed in the name of religion, for whatever reason. What makes this phenomenon even more dangerous, is that much of the violence today takes place in virtual space, shortening the distance by targeting thousands of accounts on social media, which has become faster andmore powerful than other traditional platforms. In order to face these threats, we have to uphold values of tolerance and respect for diversity, as well as the promotion of peace and interreligious dialogue. In addition to promoting a culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, we have to be determined to combat fanaticism and racism in all forms. All faith-based organ- izations and intellectual associations that have influence should join our efforts to combat extremist organizations. We cannot just condemn violent acts and thoughts. We must also be well aware that firm discourse, held in the face of those thoughts, will have significant outcomes. That is why we have to resort to soft power and moderate discourse.We also need to positively use the same scientific and technological tools, which aremisusedby extremists.TheKing- domof Saudi Arabia has always been aware of these challenges. This is why, through a process of development and by exploring the future, we hold an intermediate and balanced stance based upon peaceful coexistence and noble human values. King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, may God protect him, has stated the following: “There is no room for any fanatic or extremist, who misuses religious values to spread or achieve his objectives.” The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, since it was We have to resort to soft power and moderate discourse. We also need to positively use the same scientific and technological tools, which are misused by extremists