Kazakh president warns of rising nuclear conflict risk PHOTO

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev opened the plenary session of the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions on September 17 in Astana, teh country's capital, expressing deep concern over the increasing risk of nuclear conflict.

He highlighted that experts estimate the probability of such a catastrophic event to be at its highest in decades, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media. 

In his address, Tokayev pointed out that instead of advancing constructive initiatives and policies aimed at easing tensions, confrontational thinking is on the rise and geopolitical divisions are widening.

He stressed the crucial role of constructive diplomacy in overcoming mutual alienation and fostering trust on the international stage.

The Kazakh president also conveyed his confidence that religious leaders attending the congress would make every effort to prevent the world from descending into chaos. Additionally, he emphasised the growing climate threats facing the world and proposed that the congress discuss an initiative to develop a joint document outlining the role of religious leaders in combating climate change.

He suggested that such a document could incorporate principles of environmental responsibility inspired by spiritual values, with particular attention to supporting vulnerable regions.

The congress brought together over 100 delegations from nearly 60 countries, including spiritual leaders from Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, and Shintoism, alongside representatives of international organizations, experts, and prominent political and public figures.

By Sabina Mammadli