President Tokayev Meets Mohamed Abdelsalam, Reaffirms Commitment to Interfaith Dialogue and Human Fraternity
Astana, The Gulf Observer: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev held a meeting on Thursday with Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders and the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, the Akorda press service reported.
During the meeting, President Tokayev expressed his support for key initiatives and projects being implemented in Kazakhstan under the auspices of the Muslim Council of Elders, describing the institution as reputable, influential, and globally recognized.
The Kazakh leader underscored the importance of promoting the principles of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and the humanistic values of Islam, noting that these principles align closely with Kazakhstan’s political course and long-standing commitment to interfaith harmony.
President Tokayev welcomed the inauguration of the first office of the Muslim Council of Elders in Central Asia, established in Kazakhstan, calling it a significant step in strengthening regional and international cooperation in the sphere of religious dialogue.
He also highlighted the prestige of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, describing it as one of the most distinguished international awards dedicated to advancing the ideals of unity, shared responsibility, and global solidarity. According to the President, the award makes a meaningful contribution to fostering dialogue and cooperation worldwide.
For his part, Mohamed Abdelsalam thanked the Kazakh leader for the warm reception and reaffirmed his commitment to actively participating in the work of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions held in the Kazakh capital.
The Secretary-General commended Kazakhstan’s role in supporting the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, noting that the leaders of both countries were among this year’s recipients of the Sheikh Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.
Concluding the meeting, President Tokayev conveyed his greetings to the President of the Muslim Council of Elders and Grand Imam of Al-Azhar University, Ahmed Al-Tayeb.
By presidential decree, Mohamed Abdelsalam was awarded the Order of Dostyq (Friendship), First Class, in recognition of his significant contribution to promoting interfaith dialogue and the values of humanism.
