RIYADH — Racism plays a major role in inciting violence and conflicts between community groups and between countries, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for the Arab States Dr. Nayef Falah M. Al Hajraf has stated.

The GCC chief made the statement on the occasion of the International Day of Peace, which is annually observed on September 21.

The Secretary-General stated that the GCC welcomes the participation of the international community in celebrating this day. Peace constitutes a fundamental value and a well-established vision in the policies and legislation of the member states, he said, highlighting its compatibility and consistency with the teachings of Islam. It is based mainly on the principle of coexistence and the achievement of lasting peace between peoples, and it calls for avoiding wars and rejecting conflicts and extremism of all kinds and forms, Al Hajraf sadi.

This year's International Day of Peace is themed "End Racism. Build peace.”

On this occasion, the GCC Secretary-General indicated that racism plays a major role in inciting violence and conflicts between groups of society and countries, especially those related to hate speech and contempt of religions and their sanctities, and racism based on sectarian and ethnic discrimination.

Dr Al Hajraf also referred to the historic role of the GCC states and their permanent endeavors to achieve peace and stability in their regional and international surroundings, by adopting several initiatives aimed at resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner, strengthening the approach of moderation and supporting all initiatives aimed at bringing peace, in addition to making efforts to find lasting, just and comprehensive solutions to conflicts that are witnessed by the world in support of the foundations of international legitimacy.

He added that peace should be one of the most important endeavors that nations and peoples seek, as it is the best solution for addressing conflicts and building the foundations of stability in a sustainable manner, as well as achieving economic, social and cultural prosperity for peoples. This is the only guarantor of permanent security, peace and international justice, Al Hajraf concluded. — SPA