Tribune News Network
ASTANA
religious leaders from around the globe gathered for the 22nd meeting of the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Astana yesterday.
The assembly aimed to explore strategies for addressing conflict, bridging cultural differences, and advancing the congress’s mission of fostering dialogue and cooperation among diverse faiths.
The secretariat meeting attracted approximately 30 religious leaders and representatives from international organizations across 20 countries. Central to the discussions was the theme of peaceful conflict resolution, particularly concerning the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Maulen Ashimbayev, chairman of the Senate and head of the secretariat, opened the session by underscoring the critical role of diplomacy in navigating today’s complex global challenges.
“Humanity has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years. The world is now intertwined with threats that exacerbate each other,” Ashimbayev stated.
He expressed deep concern over the situation in the Middle East, calling on all parties to renounce the use of force to prevent civilian casualties and further escalation.
He stressed the necessity of addressing disagreements through political and diplomatic channels in accordance with the UN Charter and international law.
Echoing Ashimbayev’s sentiments, Abdelrahman Moussa, head of the office of Sheikh Al-Azhar, reaffirmed Al-Azhar’s commitment to non-violence.
“Despite the challenges humanity faces, Al-Azhar is always against using force in any context, especially regarding the Middle East,” he emphasized. Moussa called for high moral values to guide political decisions, pointing out the rising tide of hatred towards different religions as a critical issue that humanity must confront.
Khaled Akasheh, bureau chief for Islam at the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See, praised the role of the congress in promoting a spirit of love for humanity.
He described the congress as a “gift from Kazakhstan to humanity,” urging all participants to approach their work with a commitment to service and compassion.
Jo Bailey Wells, deputy general secretary of the Anglican Communion, highlighted Kazakhstan’s leadership in fostering interfaith dialogue.
“The greater our grief, the greater our thanks to Kazakhstan for their vision and commitment that empowers us annually as religious leaders,” she remarked. Wells challenged participants to change the narrative surrounding religion, which is often associated with conflict rather than peace.
During the meeting, the secretariat also appointed goodwill ambassadors to enhance the promotion of spiritual diplomacy. Akan Rakhmetullin, first deputy minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, noted the critical timing of this initiative amid growing global distrust.
Engaging the next generation of leaders
Additionally, the secretariat announced the first forum for young religious leaders, scheduled for October 9. Kanat Iskakov, vice-minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan, stated that the forum aims to create a platform for dialogue among young leaders to address pressing global issues and ensure continuity in leadership across generations.
