Chairman of the Committee delivered speech at “20th UN Vesak Day” event
On May 6, Ramin Mammadov, Chairman of the State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations, attended the opening ceremony of the event dedicated to the “20th UN Vesak Day” in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The event featured speeches by the President of Vietnam, Nguyen Xuan Phuc; President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake; Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Net Savoeun; and a video address from the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres.
In his speech, Chairman Mammadov highlighted the importance of defining the role of religion in public life and international relations, preventing the use of religion for political purposes, and strengthening inter-civilizational cooperation. He noted that complex social and political processes, ethnic and religious conflicts, racism, religious radicalism, and xenophobia are on the rise in today’s world. In light of these threats, the messages of peace and solidarity promoted by religions and initiatives fostering inter-civilizational dialogue are of great significance.
Ramin Mammadov emphasized Azerbaijan’s unique model of multiculturalism, which is founded on religious diversity and mutual respect. He stated that under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, tolerance and multiculturalism are recognized as priority state policies in the religious sphere. Azerbaijan has historically upheld freedom of conscience, cultivated traditions of peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths, and created a model of tolerance that can serve as an example for the world. Promoting this model internationally has become a key component of Azerbaijan’s state policy.
He also noted that prestigious events such as the World Intercultural Dialogue Forum, International Humanitarian Forum, and the Summit of World Religious Leaders, held in Baku, play a significant role in advancing intercultural relations. The Chairman emphasized that Azerbaijan is a committed partner in international efforts related to global peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
