Ataul Wasih Tariq, Missionary-in-charge, Italy
On 18 October 2024, Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya Italy organised an event at the historic Campidoglio (Capitol Hill) in Rome. The event was titled “Rome of Religions: Towards the Jubilee of Welcome. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for Interreligious Dialogue.” It was held at Sala della Protomoteca, a venue deeply embedded in Roman history.
Capitol Hill holds immense historical significance as it was once the centre of power for the Roman Empire, where Caesar and the Senate would make critical decisions that shaped the ancient world. The location was later redesigned by the renowned Renaissance artist Michelangelo, whose vision transformed it into a symbol of both Roman history and civic pride. Today, it remains the heart of Rome’s municipal and cultural activities.
The event was further elevated by the announcement of the establishment of the Council of Religions (Consulta delle Religioni), with Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya being among the first communities invited to join this important initiative. Alhamdulillah, it was a moment of great honour and significance for the Jamaat in Italy.
Distinguished guests filled the hall of 80 seats, including city administrators, academics, journalists, and members of the Jamaat. The purpose of this event was to foster greater awareness and understanding of the Jamaat’s peaceful message within Rome. External speakers were invited to speak on behalf of the Jamaat, highlighting our contributions. Among them were representatives from universities, Vatican consultants, government advisors, and Dr Nader Akkad, Imam of the Grand Mosque of Rome, who has a longstanding friendship with the Jamaat. The National President of the Italian Islamic Communities, Yasin Lafram, also delivered a speech, emphasising the importance of collaboration and unity within the broader Muslim community.
By the grace of Allah the Almighty, this event created a positive environment for the Jamaat’s ongoing and future projects in Italy. Key Muslim leaders, national administrators and local authorities spoke in our favour, providing invaluable support to our initiatives.