The Organization for Moderation, Dialogue, Peace, and Countering Extremism in East Darfur on Sunday hosted a discussion session for Islamic scholars and Christian leaders to explore ways of combatting extremism.

The event was hosted at Bakhita Church in the town of Al-Duein, the capital of East Darfur State.

Dr. Sheikh Salim Hamid, an Islamic leader, told Radio Tamazuj that the project of coexistence between religions and promoting religious tolerance is key to fighting extremism in the area.

He emphasized that what Prophet Muhammad and Jesus brought forth emerged from the same source and the common denominator between the noble prophets is the call for peace, coexistence, and acceptance of others, as stated in the Holy Quran that the closest people to Muslims are Christians.

A Christian minister, Michael James, said the origin of humanity goes back to one person, Adam.

“So, I sense the beauty of the project, especially as it indicates the exercise of personal freedoms regardless of an individual's religion and reflects mutual respect,” he stated.

According to James, the project aimed at dialogue and discussions between religions, expressing his wish for the project to reach everyone to allow personal freedoms.

For his part, Michael Machot Akot, a participant, said he was pleased to interact with Muslims.

“I am pleased to meet my Muslim brothers and our meeting aimed to address reconciliation and tackle extremism,” he stated.

Another participant, Andrea James called for the protection of every human being, describing the meeting as crucial and one that promoted peace and other noble values.

"Without the protection of humans, we cannot achieve peace,” he said. “When a person finds freedom, they can choose the right path for themselves.”