The International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue today hosted an official visit from a delegation of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), led by its Chair, Vicky Hartzler.
The meeting was chaired by Mr. M. Kalizhanov, Acting Chairman of the Board of the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue. Representatives from Kazakhstan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture and Information were also in attendance.
During the session, the Center presented its key areas of work and showcased Kazakhstan's experience in fostering interreligious dialogue. The country's dedicated efforts to enhance religious literacy and strengthen a culture of peace and harmony were specifically highlighted. The American delegation's visit aimed to gain insights into Kazakhstan's current religious landscape and observe ongoing initiatives to bolster interfaith harmony. Within the framework of international partnership projects, both sides exchanged views and discussed crucial issues concerning the assurance of religious freedom, mutual respect, and tolerance.
Following the meeting, the USCIRF delegation expressed significant interest in Kazakhstan's activities aimed at strengthening interfaith harmony and religious freedom. They also reaffirmed their readiness to cooperate, particularly in the ongoing preparations for the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions.
