The XX Session of the Secretariat of the Congress of Religious Leaders was chaired by Maulen Ashimbayev
The XX Session of the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions was held in the Capital of Kazakhstan, chaired by Maulen Ashimbayev, the Speaker of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Head of the Secretariat of the Congress. The event was attended by around 30 representatives of world and traditional religions.
Welcoming the participants of the meeting Maulen Ashimbayev expressed his gratitude and pointed out that the VII Congress is taking place in a very crucial period for the world community and it can be rightfully called a historical one. The Congress will allow the spiritual leaders to directly communicate, discuss important issues on strengthening of interreligious and inter-civilization dialogue, discuss the ways to solve the actual problems of the modern world.
"The whole world is experiencing the continuing impact of pandemics, conflicts, sanctions, climate change and other global problems. We all see an increased level of geopolitical tension and conflict in the world. Mistrust between countries, wars, terrorist activity, and the lack of effectiveness of international organizations have a negative impact on the overall world situation. In these circumstances our Forum can send an important signal to the international community. Call for dialogue, overcoming controversies, ending conflicts and achieving peace", - said Maulen Ashimbayev.
The Head of the Secretariat of the Congress emphasized that in these conditions both ordinary citizens and political leaders need spiritual support, a new paradigm of values, and world-view reference points.
"It is up to spiritual leaders and religious figures to fill the worldview and spiritual vacuum with new meanings. Consolidate the world community on the basis of a constructive agenda. Create conditions for a comprehensive dialogue for peace and prosperity of mankind," noted Maulen Ashimbayev, expressing the hope for strengthening global dialogue for peace, harmony, and harmonious development.
Representatives of the leading world religions, international organisations and religious associations of our country took part in the Session and they noted the high importance of the work carried out by Kazakhstan to establish an inter-religious and inter-confessional dialogue not only inside the country but also at the international level.
During the meeting the participants also discussed the Agenda of the VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions as well as the draft final Declaration of the VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.
At the same time as a result of the meeting it was decided to hold the next XXI Session of the Secretariat of the Congress in autumn 2023 in the Capital of Kazakhstan.