Spiritual Diplomacy in Kazakhstan
Cultivating Interfaith Dialogue and Diplomacy: An Interview with Ambassador Bulat Sarsenbayev
Earlier last year, in the heart of Astana, I had the honor of sitting down with Ambassador Bulat Sarsenbayev, the Chairman of the board of the Nazarbayev Center for Development of Interfaith and Intercivilization Dialogue. Sarsenbayev discussed the invaluable role interfaith dialogue plays in building mutual understanding between nations and civilizations.
As a distinguished diplomat with Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he has served in various sensitive posts including as Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to India, Iraq, and Lebanon. His unique blend of academic, diplomatic, and practical experience makes him a significant voice in advancing dialogue between different faiths and civilizations.
According to Ambassador Sarsenbayev, fostering genuine dialogue and contact among people of various faiths holds the potential to minimize conflict and instability, enhance national security, and yield socio-economic benefits for the states involved. This approach has been at the core of Kazakhstan’s foreign policy since gaining independence in 1991.
In the discussion, Ambassador Sarsenbayev expressed support for a national interest-based approach to diplomacy grounded in realism, one that respects the interests of interlocutors.
He emphasized the importance of giving spiritual leaders a significant platform, bringing their moral compass and empathetic qualities to the negotiating table. Opening the door for meaningful dialogue among people of different faiths can contribute to more cooperative relations between states, peoples, and cultures.
The Center for Development of Interfaith and Intercivilization Dialogue, led by Ambassador Sarsenbayev, is poised to play a pivotal role in promoting this critical goal. Underpinning these efforts is a commitment to further understanding, mutual respect, and cooperation among nations and cultures.
The Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in Astana last year, has been a testament to this commitment. Drawing in influential religious leaders from around the world, the Congress has established itself as a significant platform for fostering mutual understanding between nations.
Kazakhstan, situated at the crossroads of the Eurasian continent, has a rich history of cultural and religious diversity, making it an ideal setting for such diplomatic endeavors. Leveraging its experience as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society, Kazakhstan continues to champion the need for greater discourse and exchange of ideas on topics surrounding religion and national identity.
Amidst the current challenges facing the international community, the Center for Development of Interfaith and Intercivilization Dialogue has emerged as a stronghold for religious leaders to promote inter-civilizational dialogue. Ambassador Sarsenbayev expressed confidence in the Center’s efforts to contribute to the reduction of conflicts on a global scale.
Moving forward, the vision of the Center encompasses promoting spiritual diplomacy, nurturing a deep culture of tolerance, and countering the politicization of religion and the manipulation of theology. Their focus will be on strengthening partnerships, organizing international events, and furthering the message of dialogue and mutual respect across the globe.
As we look towards the future, it is clear that meaningful dialogue among and between nations, peoples, and cultures will continue to hold significance as a means of achieving peace and stability. With the efforts of the Center and the participating leaders, the ongoing pursuit of fostering understanding and cooperation promises to contribute to a brighter, more peaceful future for the global community.
