On 25 September 2025, the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue hosted a meeting at the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in Astana, bringing together representatives of religious associations officially registered in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The event was attended by the Chairman of the Committee for Religious Affairs, A.N. Khatiyev, senior officials of the International Center, and leaders of all major religious confessions in the country.
The meeting focused its discussions on several key areas of engagement. A primary topic was a comprehensive review of the VIII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions recently held in Astana, with participants commending its excellent organization and global significance. Additionally, the meeting addressed contemporary issues related to State-Religious cooperation and the interaction between government authorities and religious communities. A strong emphasis was also placed on strategies to reinforce traditional values and promote spiritual harmony within Kazakhstani society, aiming to sustain ongoing domestic unity.
In his opening address, Mr. Khatiyev extended sincere gratitude to the representatives of all religious associations for their active and dedicated participation in the VIII Congress. He underscored that their unified presence, transcending ethnic and denominational differences, serves as an invaluable example of spiritual consensus for other nations.
In response, the religious representatives affirmed the critical importance of preserving and reinforcing traditional spiritual values as a cornerstone for societal stability and concord.
Following the formal proceedings, a museum tour was organized for the participants, featuring the exhibitions “The Shroud of Turin” and “Sacred Books,” which are currently on display at the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
