Kazakhstan, Astana, June 29 / Trend , K. Konirova/
Seventh meeting of the Secretariat of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions opened in Astana today under the chairmanship of the Speaker of the Senate of the Kazakh Parliament and Head of the Secretariat Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
"We can make our forum not only main area of global interfaith dialogue, but also a universal platform for constructive dialogue on pressing issues of our time," Tokayev said.
Noting the significant contribution of the forum participants to the popularization of ideas of the Congress on the world stage, he stressed the importance of efforts to establish fruitful contacts with international organizations in the field of interfaith relations, including the Society of St. Egidio and Саsа Аsiа Institute and Alliance of Civilizations.
The Speaker said the exchange of views on matters discussed at the plenary of the Congress, as well as the subjects identified in the discussions that will allow religious leaders to present their vision on the urgent issues of our time and interfaith harmony in specific countries and regions around the world.
Noting the effective influence of globalization on further development of modern civilization and involvement of the world's religions with this religion, Tokayev emphasized the special role of Astana inter-religious dialogue establishing a new form of global relationships of universally recognized denominations.
Tokayev said the coming spiritual Congress, which raised international interest in connection with participation in a forum not only religious leaders, but also prominent politicians, will make a significant contribution to the promotion of spiritual values, a culture of peace, harmony and tolerance in the new millennium.
The proposals to further improve content of the final document to be adopted at the end of the Congress, as well as the date and venue of the next meeting of the Secretariat.