“When elders speak, they are heard“: Kazakh MP on Congress in Astana

Tengrinews.kz – The 18th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions is taking place in Astana, bringing together heads of various faiths. Speaking to Tengrinews.kz, Majilis deputy Sergey Ponomaryov emphasized the ongoing importance of such gatherings, even in the age of artificial intelligence.

“State leaders are largely religious, and citizens of many countries are religious. So when authorities speak, when elders speak, they are heard. Diplomacy and international negotiations often work this way. This is a unique format where representatives of completely different faiths sit at one table, sharing the idea that God is one and that no religion calls for war,” Ponomaryov said.

He noted that the congress has grown significantly in scale:

“At the first congress, there were 13 members; now there are hundreds. This event is visible and respected. Look at the level of guests: Patriarch Kirill, greetings from the Pope, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The issues being raised – synergy, global peace, concern over war escalation – resonate with all religious leaders.”

Ponomaryov also echoed President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s warning that the world is closer to nuclear catastrophe than ever before.

“President Tokayev very accurately said this decade is defined by our proximity to nuclear disaster, a real Armageddon. Religious leaders understand this, which is why they are here – to use faith as a way to unite nations and states,” he added.

The Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions has been held in Astana since 2003. Its main goal is to promote dialogue between religions and cultures, strengthen trust and cooperation, prevent extremism, and contribute to global peace and stability.