Riyadh: The opening ceremony of the 11th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), held under the theme ‘UNAOC: Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity – Advancing a New Era of Mutual Respect and Understanding in a Multipolar World’, took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Azerbaijan’s participation in the forum was marked by a significant delegation and active engagement in discussions aimed at promoting mutual respect and understanding.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event was addressed by notable figures including Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres. Azerbaijan was represented by Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, Chairman of Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations Ramin Mammadov, and Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board (CMB) Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade. The forum, featuring meetings and plenary sessions, provided a platform for Azerbaijan to highlight its contributions to global multiculturalism and tolerance.
During his address, Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade conveyed greetings from President Ilham Aliyev and emphasized Azerbaijan’s leadership role in promoting global multiculturalism through initiatives like the Baku Process and World Intercultural Dialogue forums. He noted Azerbaijan’s efforts in hosting key events such as the 7th Global Forum of UNAOC and ongoing heritage restoration projects in Garabagh. The session also featured addresses from leaders such as ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik and Elder Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon.
As part of the forum, CMB Chairman Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade engaged in bilateral meetings with various international leaders, including Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed bin Abdulkarim El Khereiji and UN Under-Secretary-General Miguelngel Moratinos. These meetings focused on enhancing cooperation and exploring future collaborative activities, reflecting Azerbaijan’s active role in global peace initiatives.