During the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, Kazakhstan, under the patronage of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the main session witnessed a significant moment affirming international recognition of the efforts of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).

President Tokayev presented ICESCO Director-General, Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, with the Medal of Honor of the Congress in recognition of his role in promoting global peace, encouraging interfaith and intercultural dialogue, and fostering understanding and coexistence among nations.

His Excellency President Tokayev also honored several religious and intellectual leaders participating in the Congress, acknowledging their contributions to advancing coexistence and harmony. This collective recognition reflects the Congress’s core message of building a more just, peaceful, and united world.

The award highlights ICESCO’s standing as a leading international platform for cultural, educational, and scientific action, and as a center of expertise that empowers generations, protects heritage, promotes innovation, and spreads the values of peace worldwide.

For his part, Dr. AlMalik expressed his profound pride in this distinction, stressing that it is an honor for ICESCO and all its staff. He described it as a call to continue working diligently and faithfully to serve humanity by promoting a culture of dialogue and building a future of peace, dignity, and mutual respect.

The Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions was established in 2003 by the Republic of Kazakhstan. Since then, it has become a global platform bringing together religious, intellectual, and political leaders from around the world. Held every three years in Astana, the Congress attracts broad participation from representatives of major faiths and international bodies. Its mission is to promote dialogue, foster mutual understanding, and address global challenges with a spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility. Over the years, it has built bridges of cooperation among followers of different faiths and civilizations, offering a shared vision for achieving spiritual security and societal peace worldwide.