Astana, April 27, 2026
The International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue and the Institute for the Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (IPDAL)—a leading Portuguese institution—convened an introductory meeting via video conference. During the session, the parties discussed prospects for establishing bilateral cooperation and explored potential areas for joint engagement across various international and expert platforms.
Gulsana Kozhabay, Chair of the Board of ICIID, congratulated IPDAL President Paulo Neves on the institute’s 20th anniversary and highlighted Kazakhstan’s historic mission in fostering global dialogue. She noted that the Center is currently prioritizing the expansion of its international network, with a specific focus on building partnerships in Latin America.
During the talks, the Chair stated that ICIID is currently engaged in strengthening the expert-led track of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Beyond promoting spiritual harmony, the Center is dedicated to developing practical, result-oriented solutions to contemporary global challenges and trends.
Paulo Neves, President of IPDAL, underscored Kazakhstan’s role as a vital bridge between regions and noted the international community's growing interest in Central Asia. The President outlined IPDAL’s operational model, which functions as a think tank, event tank, and action tank by integrating analytical research and flagship events with the delivery of practical economic and humanitarian solutions.
Imam Marwan Gill, Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Argentina, highlighted the uniqueness of the Kazakhstani platform. He remarked that Kazakhstan’s ability to facilitate direct dialogue between leaders of diverse spiritual and religious traditions is a rare achievement in international practice.
The parties reviewed the ICIID’s key expert initiatives in the latter half of the meeting, including an AI Code of Ethics and a working document on the role of religion in addressing climate change. IPDAL representatives expressed strong interest in the ethics of artificial intelligence and acknowledged the growing international concern regarding environmental issues.
To formalize their cooperation, both parties expressed their intention to prepare a Memorandum of Understanding. The signing of this document is viewed as the first step toward a structured partnership and the launch of joint initiatives.
Looking ahead, the two organizations have identified several key milestones for practical cooperation. These include the participation of Portuguese experts in the Congress’s Expert Round Table, a formal showcase of the Center and Secretariat’s projects at IPDAL’s facilities, and the Center’s engagement in the "Mafra Dialogue" forum scheduled for Spring 2027.
