There is an increasing need for humanitarian work due to natural and man-made disasters, Saleh Al-Wohaibi, secretary-general of the World Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY), said here on Sunday.

Al-Wohaibi was addressing members of the diplomatic corps and government officials at the 11th annual iftar party held at the Riyadh Intercontinental Hotel.

Ambassadors and deputy heads of missions were present at the function concluded with a dinner banquet.

“The need of the modern-day man for humanitarian work and charitable organizations has increased as a result of the increase in man-made problems and also due to frequenting natural disasters such a floods and earthquakes,” Al-Wohaibi said.

He pointed out that humanitarian organizations can be considered as one of the most important achievements of modern civilization.

“They represent the greatest gift to humanity,” he said, adding that they have paved the way for the creation of what has become to be known as the third sector.

“The growth of third sector in a society has become indicative of the overall growth and development of the society,” he added. “It reflects our commitment to the values of cooperation and peaceful existence of people regardless of their ethnicity and religious background.”

Italian Ambassador Mario Boffo said it is sad to note that many phenomena the world is witnessing stem from the lack of sensitivity for young people’s need and aspirations.

“Many changes throughout the Arab world happened under the pressure of mistrust and discontent felt by young generations being deprived of their future,” he said.

He added that ensuring youths enjoy good education and fair access to the job market is both moral and political duty of any government.

Turkish Ambassador Ahmet Muhtar Gun said: “Increasing intolerance and xenophobia on the basis of racial, ethnic and religious differences continue to be the main concern for us. They are the diseases of modern times.”

He added: “I believe that as long as the principles of justice, fairness and mutual respect are observed, and human dignity for everyone is ensured, there is no reason for people of different faiths or views not to coexist peacefully. For instance, contributions made by migrants to the cultural diversity of the societies they live in cannot be denied. This should be considered as an element of cultural richness rather than difference. Of course, on the other hand, rules and regulations of the host countries must be respected.”