On December 9, 2024, an international roundtable on “The Responsibilities of Believers in Tackling Global Challenges” was held in Tehran, Iran. The event was organized by the Center for Dialogue of Religions and Cultures of the Islamic Republic of Iran in collaboration with the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue.
The roundtable brought together representatives of religious organizations, scholars, public figures, and delegations from various countries, including Kazakhstan. The Kazakh delegation was represented by the Chairman of the Committee for Religious Affairs of the Ministry of Information and Social Development of Kazakhstan, E.B. Nukenjanov, and the Advisor of the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue, B.S. Sarsenbayev.
The key goal of the roundtable was to discuss the role of religious leaders and international organizations in addressing global issues such as climate change, poverty alleviation, and conflict prevention. It also aimed to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and seek solutions for building a fair and harmonious world.
In his speech, E.B. Nukenjanov emphasized that Kazakhstan is home to over 100 ethnic groups and 18 confessions, all living in peace and harmony. He highlighted the work of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which serves as a unique international platform for discussing issues of peace, social equality, and sustainable development. E.B. Nukenjanov expressed his gratitude to the Iranian government, the World Assembly for the Rapprochement of Islamic Schools of Thought, and the Center for Dialogue of Religions and Cultures for their support of Kazakhstan’s initiatives in interfaith cooperation.
B.S. Sarsenbayev, Advisor to the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue, spoke about the significance of the First Forum of Young Religious Leaders, held in Astana. He noted that involving youth in dialogue and decision-making contributes to intergenerational continuity and sustainable development.
Participants of the roundtable emphasized the importance of uniting efforts to address global challenges based on shared moral and ethical values inherent in all religious traditions. They agreed to continue collaboration and exchange experiences to jointly tackle pressing global issues.
This event served as a vital platform for strengthening interfaith dialogue and fostering international partnerships.
