The telegram reads, in part:
“Interfaith relations are an important element of dialogue between cultures and civilisations. Their development influences mutual understanding and trust between peoples and nations, the spiritual revival of society, and teaches youth to respect high moral and ethic values. The principles of compassion and tolerance are universal across all religions, and these principles serve as a barrier in the path of violence and extremism.
I am certain that this summit will help to resolve these key modern challenges and will help in building a more just and humane world order.”
The World Summit of Religious Leaders is taking place on April 26 and 27 in Baku. Its participants include the leaders of major Christian churches and Muslim, Jewish, and Buddhist communities, as well as representatives from the Hindu, Sikh, and Shinto traditions. Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia is also participating in the summit.
The first World Summit of Religious Leaders was held in Moscow in 2006, at the initiative by Russia’s Interfaith Council (RIC). The initiative was continued in Germany, Japan, and Italy.