Kazakhstan positions itself as a global interfaith mediator at Astana congress

Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev opened the eighth Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions on September 17, emphasizing the urgency of dialogue, tolerance, and collective responsibility amid escalating global crises. His address positioned Kazakhstan as a leader in “spiritual diplomacy,” advocating for interfaith collaboration to address humanity’s most pressing challenges.

A call for unity in diversity

Tokayev warned that the world faces an era of growing conflict, inequality, and mistrust, where interreligious dialogue is essential, not optional. “The congress represents a unique tool for strengthening peace and constructive coexistence,” he said, announcing plans to extend its framework through 2033. Highlighting Kazakhstan’s model of peaceful coexistence, Tokayev urged participants to embrace "unity in diversity" as a guiding principle.

He further underscored Kazakhstan's historical commitment to tolerance, citing the preservation of sacred sites like the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the Beket-Ata Mosque as symbols of harmony and respect.

Proposals for global challenges

The president presented several initiatives to link the congress to urgent global issues, including:

- Establishing a “Movement for Peace” under the congress framework

- Drafting a joint interfaith document on combating climate change

- Creating an interreligious commission on the ethics of artificial intelligence

Tokayev urged religious leaders to address these challenges collectively, positioning interfaith dialogue as a moral compass for global decision-making. He also called on youth to champion values of tolerance and mutual respect to secure a better future.

Gaza crisis dominates discussions

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza cast a shadow over the congress, with several speakers condemning Israel’s actions against Palestinians. Sheikh Mohammad Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, described the situation as genocide and called on the global community to intervene.

“Mass genocide and systematic famine are a disgrace to the world community,” Al-Issa stated, urging nations to break their silence. Tokayev echoed this sentiment, framing such atrocities as moral tests that demand unified ethical responses through interfaith frameworks.

Voices of faith leaders

The congress featured diverse perspectives from prominent religious leaders. Sheikh Al-Issa called for moving beyond symbolic gestures, emphasizing shared human morality. Pope Leo XIV urged solidarity through “synergy in action,” while Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem highlighted the importance of dialogue as a source of hope.

Patriarch Kirill of Moscow praised the congress as a significant platform for fostering peace, and Li Guangfu, Chair of the World Taoist Federation, emphasized dialogue as the foundation for resolving global crises.

UN support for Kazakhstan’s initiative

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in a written message, commended Kazakhstan for hosting the congress, reiterating the UN’s belief in dialogue as a tool for peace. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations, described Kazakhstan’s approach as “spiritual diplomacy,” a form of conscience-driven mediation that complements political negotiations.

“Dialogue is not a one-time event, it is a way of life,” Moratinos said, praising Kazakhstan’s vision of sustained interfaith cooperation.

Kazakhstan’s growing global influence

Since its inception in 2003, the congress has evolved from a symbolic gathering into a platform for actionable global initiatives, thanks to the efforts of Kazakhstan’s leaders. Tokayev’s proposals on climate change, artificial intelligence, and peacebuilding aim to solidify the congress’s relevance in addressing global challenges.

Kazakhstan’s role as a bridge between cultures and faiths continues to grow, bolstered by its commitment to multilateralism and adherence to the UN Charter. As Tokayev noted, the synergy of dialogue and collaboration offers hope for a more peaceful and equitable world.