Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran gives a speech on the Occasion of the Birthday of the Prophet (PBUH) and the inauguration of the Al-Mustafa

H.E. Nassereddin HEIDARI, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Thailand, delivered a speech at the inauguration ceremony of the Al-Mustafa Educational and Research Foundation in Thailand, which coincided with the commemoration of the birth of the Prophet MOHAMMAD (PBUH).

While expressing his congratulations on the auspicious birthday of the nobel Prophet of Islam (PBUH) and the official inauguration of the Al-Mustafa Educational and Research Foundation in Thailand, he stated:

The mission of the Prophet of Islam (PBUH) was, above all, the mission of knowledge and wisdom. The first words that were revealed to his blessed heart were the command to “Read.” This word was not a simple invitation, but rather the cornerstone of a new civilization in which humanity would step from ignorance and superstition to the light of knowledge and understanding. Our great Prophet called himself a teacher and said: "I have been sent only to teach."  The Al-Mustafa Educational and Research Foundation, whose name is derived from one of the blessed names of the Holy Prophet of Islam, is inspired by this important vision and is committed to continuing this sacred path. Therefore, today's blessed occasion, which coincides with the inauguration of the Al-Mustafa Educational and Research Foundation in Thailand, should have a profound meaning and a wise message for us who are gathered here.

I believe that, this foundation is not just an academic center; it is also a place to cultivate thought, ethics, and creativity in Thailand. Our great Prophet defined his mission to complete the virtues of morality when he said: "Indeed, I have been sent only to complete the virtues of morality."

In the current world conditions, the need for academic centers that, in addition to transferring knowledge, address key issues in society is felt more than ever. By creating a suitable platform for applied research, the foundation can seek to provide innovative and effective solutions to the challenges facing the Thai Muslim community.

Conducting research on the interaction of Islam with local Thai culture, history and traditions can help explain the cultural identity of Thai Muslims and strengthen social cohesion. In the meantime, interfaith dialogue is very important, as we witnessed last year and was held at this foundation.

Thai Muslims can explore the common moral and human grounds of Islam and Buddhism by organizing meetings and discussions with Buddhist leaders and followers. These discussions can help reduce misunderstandings and strengthen mutual respect between Muslims and followers of other religions in Thailand, especially with Buddhism, which shares values such as peace, kindness and compassion for people and helping those in need with Islam, and strengthen human ties.

Establishing relationships with Thai and international universities and research centers to carry out joint projects and exchange knowledge will transform the foundation from a local institution into a reputable scientific authority. Publishing research results in the form of articles, translating reference books and specialized publications in order to enrich existing Islamic scientific resources, as has been done so far, is a constructive and effective step.

We hope that, this foundation, relying on science and wisdom, will be a source of goodness and blessings for Thai Muslims and all humanity.