Cairo, January 19, 2019, SPA -- The 29th International Conference of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, organized by the Egyptian Ministry of Awqaf under the patronage of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, began here today. More than 150 international figures from more than 40 countries, including 13 ministers of Awqaf and Islamic affairs, Islamic organizations, scientists, intellectuals and university professors. The delegation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Conference was headed by Minister of Islamic Affairs, Da'wah and Guidance Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh. The conference was inaugurated by the Egyptian Minister of Awqaf, Dr. Mohammad Mukhtar Jumaa. The conference entitled "Building the National Character and its Impact on the Progress of Countries and Preservation of Their Identity" will discuss the components and foundations of the national religious and cultural discourse, education and its impact on building personality, the role of the family, media, scientists and national institutions in building the national character and the strategic vision for the development of religious discourse and its impact in preventing extremism and terrorism. The conference will also hold workshops and seminars on Egypt's historical, civilization and multi-cultural relations with African countries, the role of the family in stabilizing society, ways to protect youth from extremism and support their participation in development programs and the role of social media in the stability of societies. --SPA 14:01 LOCAL TIME 11:01 GMT 0004 www.spa.gov.sa/w822759