The Minister of Information and Social Development of Kazakhstan discussed with the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia the ways of cooperation on the rehabilitation of citizens affected by destructive religious groups

The Minister of Information and Social Development of Kazakhstan Mr. Dauren Abayev discussed with Abdullatif Al-Asheikh, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia the ways of cooperation on the rehabilitation of citizens affected by destructive religious groups, during the meeting held in Riyadh on 2 February 2020.

Mr. Dauren Abayev noted that Kazakhstan highly appreciates the efforts of Saudi Arabia aimed at strengthening the role of Islam in the world, the propaganda of the true and peaceful essence of religion - tolerant and uniting all peoples.
"We know that today Saudi Arabia conducts uncompromising struggle against radical extremism and terrorism. Kazakhstan has always condemned and continuing to condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and supports the world community in taking effective collective efforts to eradicate this phenomenon," the Minister said.

Minister Abdullatif Al-Asheikh noted the depth and strength of brotherly relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Kazakhstan, stressing that the Kingdom cherishes its relationships with its brothers living in there countries where Islam is is most widespread.

"The Kingdom, led by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, is committed to maintain the interests of Muslims around the world and in every possible way to protect Islam from the harmful influence of extremists and terrorists who are the enemies of Islam," the Sheikh said.

The parties exchanged views on ways to develop bilateral cooperation in the spiritual and religious sphere and discussed the Agenda of the current situation of Islam.

Following the meeting, the ministers agreed to intensify the exchange of experience and information on the prevention of radical religious movements, in particular, the practice of counter-propaganda work to protect the population from the influence of extremist religious ideology.

Within the framework of studying the best practices of his Saudi colleagues, Mr. Dauren Abayev reviewed the activities of the Rehabilitation Centre named after Muhammad bin Naif and visited the Centre for Ideological Warfare under the Ministry of Defense.

Also, Mr. Dauren Abayev met with the Minister of Information of Saudi Arabia, Turki bin Abdullah Al Shabanah. The Ministers discussed prospects for cooperation in the field of media. They agreed to conclude a memorandum between the most significant news agencies of the two countries - KazInform news agency and the Saudi News Agency.