Who is maitreys the friend of all souls?

Maitreya, often referred to as the "Friend of All Souls," is a figure in Buddhist tradition who is believed to be the future Buddha. He is expected to come to Earth when the teachings of Gautama Buddha have faded and help guide humanity towards enlightenment. Maitreya embodies compassion and loving-kindness, emphasizing the importance of these qualities in fostering harmony among all beings. His teachings and presence are seen as a source of hope and inspiration for many.