A presentation of the translation of a book by Mohammed Abdelsalam, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Elders, was held in Astana. The Kazakh-language edition is titled "The Pope and the Supreme Imam: The Thorny Path Testifies to the Birth of Human Fraternity." The ceremony was attended by Maulen Ashimbayev, Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Head of the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, the author, members of Parliament, representatives of the diplomatic corps, clergy, and public figures.
Addressing the ceremony participants, Maulen Ashimbayev noted that for his contribution to strengthening interreligious and intercultural dialogue globally, promoting the ideas and goals of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, and for his efforts and systematic work to deepen Kazakhstan's relationship with Al-Azhar University, Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has decided to award Mohamed Abdelsalam the Order of Dostyk, 1st Class. It was noted that earlier that day, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Elders.
The Senate Speaker also emphasized that the President has repeatedly pointed out that humanity is facing unprecedented challenges today: the aggravation of the geopolitical situation, the intensification of cultural and religious contradictions, the climate crisis, and growing social inequality. It was emphasized that, in this regard, the growing role of interreligious dialogue and spiritual diplomacy is particularly important.
"In Kazakhstan, initiatives aimed at strengthening the unity of humanity are always given special attention. President Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev attaches great importance to the development of intercultural and intercivilizational dialogue. As the Head of State noted, constructive dialogue based on mutual respect is the key to sustainable development. In this regard, our country consistently supports initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, trust, and cooperation at the global level. Of particular importance in this context are projects that promote a culture of peace and dialogue, as well as strengthen mutual understanding and social harmony," said Maulen Ashimbayev.
Maulen Ashimbayev also noted that the document "On Human Brotherhood for Peace and Peaceful Coexistence," adopted in 2019, has become a unique appeal calling on all of humanity to rely on shared values. The book, presented to the public, systematizes profound reflections, analytical conclusions, and philosophical assessments that reveal the essence and significance of this historical document.
It is worth noting that this work is being offered to the public in Kazakh for the first time. Maulen Ashimbayev emphasized that this step symbolizes Kazakhstan's significant role in strengthening peace and harmony globally. This is clearly demonstrated by the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, regularly held at our country's initiative, as well as the peace and harmony that reigns among the various ethnic groups living in Kazakhstan. In this regard, the publication of this book is an important step towards promoting and popularizing Kazakhstan's experience in strengthening interreligious harmony.
During the event, the book's author, Mohammed Abdelsalam, expressed gratitude to the Kazakh side for its support of the initiative aimed at strengthening human brotherhood. Also speaking at the meeting were the Chairman of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan and Supreme Mufti Nauryzbay kazhy Taganuly, statesman and public figure Adil Akhmetov, Apostolic Nuncio of the Holy See to the Republic of Kazakhstan George Panamtundil, and the Chairperson of the Board of the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue, Gulsan Kozhabay.
(Press Office of the Senate, 74-72-27. Photo by: N.Baibullin)
