Pluralism -congress in Kazakhstan, a case of destruction of places of worship in the spotlight

Jakarta – The VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions series has begun. The issue of destruction of places of worship in a number of countries has become one of the highlights. VIII Congress of World and Traditional Religion Leaders held from 16-19 September 2025 in Astana, Kazakhstan. Special sessions that discuss the protection of religious sites become the opening of a series of congress. The hearing was opened by the United Nations Deputy Secretary of General as well as the highest representative of the United Nations Civilization Alliance, Miguel Angel Moratinos, and chairman of Kazakhstan Senate, Maulen Ashimbayev. Browse to continue with the content in his remarks, Maulen emphasizes the special session on the protection of diversity objects held today is a follow-up to the 10th World Wide Forum of the United Nations civilization alliance in Portugal in November 4 2024. “The Kazakhstan people have recorded the traditions of different civilizations and religions and the spirit of tolerance and openness. The principle of unity in diversity is very important to us,” the statement of President Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, read by Maulen in the session, Tuesday (9/16/2025). President Tokayev explained that Kazakhstan had a long history to maintain cultural and spiritual heritage. He referred to the geographical position of Kazakhstan that was at the intersection of the western and eastern world. “All these holy places are part of the history of our country and are an invaluable spiritual and cultural heritage. We are very concerned about their preservation and protection,” said President Tokayev’s statement. UN Secretary -General Miguel Angel Morantinos appreciated Kazakhstan’s commitment to maintain stability and peace at the global level. He said the UN is open to supporting the Kazakhstan initiative related to the protection of religious areas. The congress of leaders of the world and traditional religions is an initiation of the Kazakhstan government to maintain the peace and harmony of religious people. This congress was held for the first time in 2003. The event was regularly held every three years in the capital Kazakhstan, Astana. On the eighth event this year, the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions carry the theme dialogue of religions: Synergy for the future. Opportunity VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions will be held at Palace of Independence, Astana, on Wednesday (17/9). President Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is scheduled to attend directly on the spot. In addition, High Priest Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayeb and Vatican representative Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery, will also be present tomorrow during the plenary session. (YGS/WHN)