Kazakhstan and the Holy See Reaffirm Commitment to Deepening Interreligious Dialogue and Cooperation

On March 26, 2026, a meeting took place in the Vatican between First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Yerzhan Ashikbayev, and the Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See, Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad.

During the discussions, both sides highlighted the high level of friendly and trust-based relations between Kazakhstan and the Holy See, emphasizing their steady development and mutual commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

Particular attention was given to collaboration within the framework of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. The Vatican confirmed that its delegation will participate in the forthcoming session of the Secretariat of the Congress, scheduled to be held in October 2026 in Astana.

The interlocutors also exchanged views on pressing international issues, including the promotion of interreligious and intercultural dialogue, the consolidation of peace, and the advancement of sustainable development.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their shared resolve to further deepen bilateral engagement and cooperation.