On May 30, 2025, Mohamed Abdelsalam, the Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Elders (MCE), conducted an official visit to the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue. During his visit, he held a meeting with Marat Kalizhanov, the Acting Chairman of the Center's Board. Their discussions centered on key priorities for fostering interreligious harmony, expanding strategic cooperation, and advancing joint initiatives in the field of spiritual diplomacy. Special emphasis was placed on preserving religious and cultural heritage.
In his remarks, Marat Kalizhanov stressed the necessity of deepening dialogue, emphasizing the symbolic significance of having the MCE's representative office situated at the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in Astana. He noted that this step reflects a shared commitment to promoting peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding. He also referenced the Memorandum of Cooperation signed in 2022 between the two organizations as a solid foundation for continued partnership: “We deeply value the trust and collaboration with the Muslim Council of Elders. Our partnership is a meaningful contribution to the global architecture of interreligious dialogue.”
Mohamed Abdelsalam confirmed his participation in the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which will take place on September 17–18 in Astana, and expressed strong interest in further strengthening cooperation with the Center.
The meeting also addressed preparations for the upcoming International Roundtable titled “Spiritual Diplomacy and the Preservation of the Sacred Heritage of World and Traditional Religions”, to be held on June 17 in Almaty. Participants expressed their belief that the event would serve as an important milestone in enhancing collaboration and could pave the way for new joint efforts to safeguard spiritual values.
At the conclusion of the visit, Mohamed Abdelsalam gave a brief video interview, in which he shared his perspectives on the future of interreligious dialogue and the evolving role of spiritual diplomacy in the contemporary world.
