Official Visit of the Geneva Institute for Coexistence to Einsiedeln Abbey, Switzerland

On 16 August 2026, an official delegation from the Geneva Institute for Coexistence visited Einsiedeln Abbey in Switzerland, one of the country’s historic and prominent Christian religious institutions.

The visit was held as part of the Institute’s ongoing efforts to establish and strengthen relations with religious institutions and organizations working in the fields of peace, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.

The delegation included members of the Institute’s Higher Committee:

• Mr. Kardo Sarbaz
• Ms. Sairan Karim
• Mr. Masoud Beg
• Mr. Sayid Abid

The delegation was received by Reverend Raphael Patir, who welcomed the delegation and held a meeting with the representatives of the Geneva Institute for Coexistence.

During the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities for cooperation and dialogue between the religious institution and the Institute, with particular emphasis on promoting peace, mutual understanding, interfaith dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.

The discussions addressed the importance of strengthening communication between religious and civil institutions and supporting initiatives that contribute to reducing tensions, encouraging dialogue, and promoting peaceful relations among different communities.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on a number of issues related to peace and coexistence, particularly in the Middle East and other regions where dialogue and mutual understanding can contribute to greater social stability and cooperation.

As part of the visit, the delegation presented Reverend Raphael Patir with a number of commemorative and cultural gifts. The meeting also provided an opportunity to learn more about the history and religious heritage of Einsiedeln Abbey, including its historic books and manuscripts.

Reverend Raphael Patir expressed his appreciation for the visit and welcomed the Institute’s efforts to promote dialogue and coexistence. He also expressed his willingness to maintain communication and explore opportunities for future cooperation in support of peace and coexistence initiatives.

The visit also included discussions regarding the possibility of continuing the dialogue through future meetings with religious leaders and institutions, including potential activities connected with the Vatican, with the aim of further developing cooperation around common humanitarian and peacebuilding objectives.

The Geneva Institute for Coexistence works to promote peace, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence at the international level. As part of its mission, the Institute seeks to establish constructive relations with religious institutions representing different faiths and traditions, with the objective of encouraging dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation in the service of humanity.

The official visit lasted approximately four hours and provided an important opportunity for institutional dialogue, cultural exchange, and the exploration of future areas of cooperation between the two sides.

About Einsiedeln Abbey

Einsiedeln Abbey is a historic Benedictine monastery and one of Switzerland’s significant religious and cultural landmarks. Its history extends for more than a thousand years and is closely associated with the Benedictine tradition.

The abbey complex includes its historic church, monastic facilities, and an important library containing historical books, manuscripts, and documents. The Baroque architecture of the complex and its longstanding religious tradition have made Einsiedeln an important destination for visitors, pilgrims, researchers, and students.

The abbey also maintains cultural and educational activities, including opportunities to learn about historical writing, bookmaking, manuscripts, and the preservation of religious and cultural heritage.

Geneva Institute for Coexistence
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