Bishop Gennady of Kaskelen Participates in International Online Conference “The Role of Religious Leaders in Achieving Sustainable Peace”

On May 21, 2025, the International Online Conference “The Role of Religious Leaders in Achieving Sustainable Peace” was held at the International Center for Interfaith and Interreligious Dialogue in the city of Astana.

The event was organized in preparation for the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which will take place on September 17–18 of this year in the capital of Kazakhstan.

The conference brought together representatives of government, academic experts, and religious organizations of the Republic, as well as scholars and public figures from Kazakhstan, Russia, Egypt, Qatar, Azerbaijan, India, Thailand, and other countries.

With the blessing of Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan, Bishop Gennady of Kaskelen – Chancellor of the Kazakhstan Metropolitan District – took part in the forum. His Grace delivered an address in online format, focusing on contemporary challenges in religious life and the dangers of extremism and terrorism carried out under the guise of faith.

The hierarch emphasized the importance of cooperation between representatives of different religious traditions at all levels. This includes, in his view, theological dialogue, joint activities among ordinary members of religious communities, and initiatives of cultural and educational significance – such as festivals and sports events.

Special attention in his remarks was given to the history and development of Kazakhstan’s flagship initiative for the advancement of interreligious dialogue – the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Bishop Gennady noted the significant personal contribution of President Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev to the ongoing success of this international forum.