The ICCI received a visit today Monday 27th March 2017 from a parliamentary delegation of 10 members from Indonesia led by Vice-Chairman of the People's Consultative Assembly of Indonesia (MPR), Dr Hidayat Nur Wahid. They were met by CEO, Dr Nooh Al-Kaddo, Imam Hussein Halawa and senior staff members and were given a tour of the centre and its facilities.
During the meeting their mission was stated as:
"We are here in Ireland to learn from the people of Ireland what it is that makes them so happy according to the World list of happy nations, Ireland presents as 3rd on the list.
Also we took this opportunity to visit the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland and we thank you for the warm welcome. We are indeed very proud of the achievements the ICCI has acclaimed over the years, you are admirable leaders.
It is impressive the number of students that enter the ICCI on a weekly basis to learn about Islam and Muslims. We were very pleased to observe some of them upon arrival.
You are an example of how dialogue and communication promotes healthy consultation that leads to peaceful coexistence between people of diverse faiths and culture.
We draw parallels to Indonesia where we endorse the spread of Islam without violence or provocation. We would like to extend an invitation to ICCI for your nominated members to participate in the upcoming Islamic Conference in Indonesia.
Our sincere thanks for your hospitality and admiration for your work is extended to you."
The delegation praised the role of the ICCI in serving the Muslim community, facilitating integration and providing a positive representation of Islam to non-Muslims. Gifts were exchanged by both sides and the visit was an overall success.
