Seventh Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Kazakhstan Advances Interfaith Dialogue and Global Cooperation

The Seventh Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions took place in Kazakhstan, marking a significant milestone in fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation on a global scale. This prestigious event brought together spiritual leaders, influential political figures, and representatives of international organizations to address pressing issues of our modern era and explore pathways for peaceful coexistence.

The Congress witnessed a diverse and esteemed lineup of participants. Notable dignitaries in attendance included Pope Francis, the Head of the Vatican and the Catholic Church, Sheikh Ahmed at-Tayeb, the Supreme Imam of the ancient Islamic University al-Azhar, Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasian Muslims Office, His Holiness and Beatitude Patriarch of the Holy City of Jerusalem, All Palestine, Arabia, Syria, Obonpol (two banks) of the Jordan, Holy Zion and Cana of Galilee Theophilus III, representatives of the Russian Orthodox Church, Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi of Israel David Lau, Chief Sephardic Rabbi Yitzhak Joseph, and several representatives from authoritative international organizations.

 A highlight of the Congress was the religious mass led by Pope Francis, who arrived in Kazakhstan on an official visit to participate in the event. Approximately 7,000 people gathered in the capital to partake in this holy mass. In addition, thousands of pilgrims from regions including Romania, Germany, Poland, Russia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkmenistan, Belarus, and Tajikistan participated in a prayer dedicated to the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. This convergence of faith and devotion further exemplified the spirit of unity and shared values among diverse religious communities.

Supreme Imam Sheikh Al-Azhar Ahmad Tayeb delivered a sermon at the Republican Main Mosque under the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan. Attended by over 20,000 people, the sermon focused on the value of unity, peace, and the spiritual integrity of the Muslim Ummah. It resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of interfaith harmony and the role of Islam in promoting global peace. The sermon was also broadcast live on the official YouTube channel of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan, extending its reach to a broader audience worldwide.

At the conclusion of the Congress, the Astana Interreligious Summit produced the DECLARATION of the VII Congress. This comprehensive document encapsulates the collective vision of religious leaders and their perspectives on addressing contemporary challenges. It outlines potential pathways for resolution and extends an appeal to the international community for cooperation and understanding. Declaration of the VII congress can be downloaded from here.

About N. Nazarbayev Center for Development of Interfaith and Inter-Civilization Dialogue

N. Nazarbayev Center for Development of Interfaith and Inter-Civilization Dialogue was established in April 2019 at the initiative of the participants of the VI Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. The activities of the centre can be downloaded from here.

The Center is an international platform for holding sessions of the Congress and its institutes - the Secretariat of the Congress and the Working Group, aimed at interaction with international structures, domestic and foreign religious organizations, and their spiritual leaders.

Dr. Shantilal Somaiya was invited to the International Congress of World and Traditional Religions organized by the Hon. Nursultan Nazarbayev, first president of Kazakhstan, in 2003, 2006 and 2009 as the Leader of Hindu Delegation. At present, Mr Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, is the Leader of the Hindu Delegation at this Congress