September 26, 2025
Web desk
Astana, Kazakhstan : The city welcomed more than 100 delegations from 60 countries for the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, convened under the theme “Synergy for the Future,” a platform aimed at reinforcing religious harmony, dialogue, and shared values.
In his keynote address, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev cautioned that the world teeters on the brink of chaos unless religious leaders step forward to build bridges, not walls. The United Nations’ Alliance of Civilizations also held its first session at the Congress, sounding alarms on rising threats to sacred sites worldwide and urging protective measures.
Over the three days, participants debated pressing global challenges — from preserving religious heritage to the role of clergy in conflict zones — and called for joint action against extremism. The event concluded with the adoption of the Astana Declaration of Peace, which reiterated the urgency of dialogue, mutual respect, and concerted efforts toward sustainable coexistence.
Observers noted that while declarations alone can’t resolve deep-seated conflicts, the Congress serves as a symbolic yet meaningful space where religious voices convene to refocus global attention on unity over division — especially amid rising geopolitical fractures.
