On September 18, the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions concluded in Astana. The event brought together over 100 delegations from 60 countries, including spiritual leaders of major faiths, representatives of international organizations, experts, political analysts, and public figures.

The Slovak Republic was represented at the forum by Mr. Ján Figeľ, former EU Special Envoy for the Promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief outside the EU and President of FOREF.

At the end of the two-day forum, the “Astana Declaration of Peace – 2025” was adopted. The document emphasizes the need to deepen interreligious and intercultural dialogue, condemns war, extremism, and terrorism, and expresses concern about the environmental situation and climate change. Special attention is given to the role of youth and women in building a just and peaceful society.

During the closing ceremony, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, highlighted the significance of the gathering for all humanity in his speech:

“Despite differences in faith and traditions, we are all united by common aspirations and good intentions. A vivid confirmation of this is the Final Declaration of the Congress, which reflects shared ideas and proposals. This, in fact, is the essence of the forum. We witnessed a constructive dialogue based on mutual respect. Most importantly, spiritual leaders have demonstrated their readiness to join efforts for the sake of common interests.”

The Head of State noted that Kazakhstan fully supports interreligious and intercultural dialogue at all levels and will actively promote the growth of the Congress’s influence as a global dialogue platform.

“We will continue expanding the Congress Secretariat’s partnership network with UN institutions and other bodies. Several events are planned with the participation of international partners, youth, experts, and volunteer organizations aimed at promoting the Congress’s ideas. Peace is our greatest wealth, a value equally important to all countries, peoples, and religions,” the President concluded.

The next, IX Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions is scheduled for 2028 and will once again be held in Astana, reflecting Kazakhstan’s role as a key center for global interfaith dialogue.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-bratislava/press/news/details/1073687?lang=kk