Baku to host Turkic states' muslim religious leaders meeting

On September 14-15, the next session of the Council of Leaders of Muslim Religious Administrations of Turkic States will be held in Baku, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Kubanychbek Omuraliev said at the first meeting of heads of state bodies on religious affairs of the organization's member states held in Shusha.

Report quotes him as saying the Council of Leaders of Muslim Religious Administrations of Turkic States has already adopted several notable declarations covering issues of common concern, including "Islam's Attitude toward Extremism," "Islam Utilizes Traditions of Indigenous Peoples," "Unity of the Ummah in Islam," and "Call to Combat Climate Change, Protect the Environment, and Address Ecological Issues":

"The next session is expected to review two additional declarations on 'Promotion of Marriage in Islam: Causes of Delayed Marriage and Obstacles to Marriage' and 'Islam's Approach to Science and Technology.' These initiatives demonstrate the Council's growing intellectual contribution to addressing contemporary problems faced by our societies."

The OTS secretary general also noted that the creation of a new cooperation format in the field of religious affairs is an important step:

"This reflects our shared understanding that when religion is approached with wisdom, responsibility, and mutual respect, it can serve as a powerful force for social cohesion, peace, and human development. We live in a period of profound transformation. In many parts of the world, societies face increasing polarization, the spread of disinformation, growing intolerance, and the exploitation of religious sentiments by extremist groups and radical ideologies. In such an environment, closer cooperation among institutions responsible for religious affairs becomes increasingly important. Our countries face many similar challenges and opportunities. By working together, exchanging experiences, and learning from each other, we can better strengthen social harmony, protect our shared values, and contribute to regional stability."