Greek City Times noted that Emin Serif, the Mufti of Didymoteicho, along with Yasar Serif Damadoglou, the Acting Mufti of Komotini, traveled to Indonesia and Saudi Arabia respectively to serve as Greek delegates at distinct international Islamic forums.
International Grand Imam Conference in Jakarta
From September 25 to 28, Emin Serif participated in the International Grand Imam Conference 2026 (IGIC 2026) held in Jakarta. Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs extended the invitation for the summit, which gathered Muftis, Imams, and senior religious representatives from 50 countries to discuss mosque harmony, religious diplomacy, and global peace.
During the Jakarta conference, Serif presented details concerning the religious, cultural, and social realities of Muslims living in Thrace. Greece’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Dimitrios Michalopoulos, accompanied Serif throughout his official engagements in the Southeast Asian nation.
High-Level Meetings with Indonesian Officials
Serif held a series of diplomatic meetings with senior Indonesian political and religious figures during his stay. These included discussions with Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs and Chief Imam of the Istiqlal Grand Mosque, Prof. Dr. Nasaruddin Umar, as well as Indonesia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Anis Matta.
The talks centered on strengthening communication channels between Muslim communities, expanding religious and cultural cooperation, and developing joint initiatives and programs.
Islamic University of Medina Conference
Yasar Serif Damadoglou traveled to Saudi Arabia to address an international conference organized by the Islamic University of Medina. The academic and religious gathering drew more than 30 Muftis and 54 speakers from 34 countries, including researchers and academics.
In his address to the conference, Damadoglou focused on the role of education and coexistence in correcting misconceptions about Islam. He stressed that meaningful knowledge and direct engagement by Muslims with their faith contribute to a better understanding of religion and foster a balanced approach.
Global Representation of Thrace
Both Mufti offices stated that the international events provided vital platforms for representatives from Thrace to connect with global religious leaders and institutions. The delegations emphasized their ongoing role in presenting Thrace as a distinct example of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and cooperation between Christian and Muslim communities.
Who invited Emin Serif to the Indonesia conference?
Who invited Emin Serif to the conference in Indonesia?
Indonesia’s Minister of Religious Affairs invited Emin Serif to attend the International Grand Imam Conference 2026 in Jakarta.
How many countries participated in the Medina conference?
Religious leaders, academics, and researchers from 34 countries participated in the conference organized by the Islamic University of Medina.
Which Greek diplomat accompanied the Mufti of Didymoteicho in Jakarta?
Greece’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Dimitrios Michalopoulos, accompanied Emin Serif during his official meetings in Jakarta.
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