~ In Collaboration with Nursultan Nazarbayev Centre for the Development of Interfaith and Inter-civilizational Dialogue ~

Mumbai, 7th August 2023: The International Round-table Conference on the 'Significance of the 7th Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions and the Congress’ Declaration' was successfully held at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Mumbai. The conference was organized by K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies in collaboration with the Nursultan Nazarbayev Centre for the Development of Interfaith and Inter-civilizational Dialogue. 

Eminent speakers and participants from various religious and cultural backgrounds shared their insights and highlighted the significance of the 7th Congress held in Astana, Kazakhstan in September 2022. The Congress played a pivotal role in searching for common human landmarks among diverse religious beliefs and provided a platform for constructive dialogue and decision-making on critical global issues. The delegates acknowledged the Congress's impact on fostering peace, harmony, and cooperation among nations and religious communities worldwide.

Shri Samir S Somaiya, President, Somaiya Vidyavihar, Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, and Leader of Hindu Delegation at Congress of World and Traditional Religions, Astana, Kazakhstan, said, "We are honoured to have participated in the 7th Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, Kazakhstan. The conference emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue in strengthening India-Kazakhstan relations and promoting peace and harmony worldwide. It is our collective responsibility to preserve and cherish the values of our diverse traditions for the betterment of humanity."

H.E. Mr. Bulat Sarsenbayev, Chairman of the Management Board of the N. Nazarbayev Centre for the Development of Interfaith and Inter-civilization Dialogue, Kazakhstan, said, "The 7th Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions has brought nations together in pursuit of common human landmarks. This Round-table Conference further strengthens our commitment to interfaith dialogue and the promotion of tolerance and mutual respect among different cultures and religions. It is through constructive dialogue that we can build a more peaceful and inclusive world."

Geshe Tenzin Lhabsum, Representative of Buddhism, said, “The 7th Congress was a remarkable platform for fostering understanding and cooperation among different religious communities. This conference hosted by SVU has reinvigorated our commitment to promote compassion, wisdom, and interfaith harmony. Together, we can build bridges that transcend cultural and religious boundaries for the collective benefit of humanity."

Supriya Rai, Director, K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, said, “At K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, we are dedicated to promoting interfaith dialogue as a means to foster global peace and understanding. This Round-table Conference has provided valuable insights and learnings on the significance of the 7th Congress and the need for continued efforts in promoting harmony and respect among all religions and cultures."

The International Round-table Conference has further cemented the commitment of all stakeholders to continue their efforts in building a world based on peace, harmony, and mutual understanding. Participants expressed their resolve to collaborate and engage in future interfaith initiatives to promote global dialogue among civilizations, cultures, and religions.