Representatives of around 30 world religions, leaders of prominent religious centers—patriarchs, Vatican and Al-Azhar officials, prominent religious and public figures, and political, scientific, and religious representatives from 55 countries and 30 international organizations are participating in the summit at the Gulistan Palace.
Prime Minister Ali Asadov read a message to summit participants from President Ilham Aliyev.
“I warmly welcome you on the occasion of the opening of the Global Summit of Religious Leaders, held under the theme ‘World Religions for a Green Planet’ in Baku.
Climate change, air and environmental pollution, drought and desertification, loss of biodiversity, and shortages of water and food are some of the global environmental issues our world faces today, posing serious threats to humanity’s existence and future. The climate crisis and environmental security require joint cooperation from nations and the unification of efforts at all levels of the international community. I appreciate the gathering of influential religious leaders at COP events in the spirit of inclusivity, their concern for the future of our planet, and their determination to contribute to this common cause.
The unanimous decision to hold COP29 in Azerbaijan reflects the high level of trust in our country’s international reputation, and this is no coincidence.
Azerbaijan has joined numerous conventions and agreements related to environmental issues, established cooperative relations with various countries, and developed extensive action programs in this field. By establishing the necessary legislative system for environmental protection, our country has created effective institutional mechanisms and an investment-friendly environment.
Currently, important steps are being taken towards implementing ‘green energy’ projects, using alternative and renewable energy sources, and assessing and addressing negative environmental impacts.
In Azerbaijan, 2024 has been declared the ‘Year of Green World Solidarity.’
Ensuring international security, peace, and tranquility on the planet is one of the key factors in combating climate change and ecological issues as a whole.
In recent history, our country was drawn into an unjust war, facing baseless territorial claims and forced to endure the harsh consequences of this bloody conflict.
During your visit to Karabakh, an ancient land of Azerbaijan, you will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the painful outcomes of Armenia’s actions over a 30-year occupation period—ecocide, culturicide, and urbicide—and see extensive reconstruction efforts based on green economy principles and renewable energy sources aimed at restoring the region’s ecological balance.
Hosting prestigious events in Azerbaijan, such as the World Summit of Religious Leaders, where humanity’s challenges are discussed, has become a tradition. I believe this summit, through its productive activities, will further strengthen our country’s role as a hub for intercivilizational dialogue, contribute significantly to the ‘Baku Process’ for intercultural cooperation, and that your solidarity for a green world, along with your wise proposals and recommendations, will aid us in achieving shared goals.
Honorable Religious Leaders!
I am confident that the summit, dedicated to critical issues, will proceed in a spirit of constructive exchange and explore the possibility of creating a platform for interfaith cooperation within the COP framework. Azerbaijan, a country of tolerance and multiculturalism, is ideally suited for this purpose.
Once again, I wish you all the best and success in your charitable work for the future of humanity,” the message reads.
