Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), took part in the annual meeting of the “Russia-Islamic World” Strategic Vision Group, held on Friday, 15 May 2026, in Kazan, under the theme “Shared Values and Principles as the Foundation for Cooperation and Mutual Understanding between the Russian Federation and the Islamic World.” The meeting was attended by Mr. Marat Khusnullin, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation; His Excellency Rustam Minnikhanov, President (Rais) of the Republic of Tatarstan, Chairman of the Group; senior officials from Russia and several Islamic countries; as well as heads and representatives of relevant international and regional organizations.

At the outset of his address, Dr. AlMalik emphasized that the theme of the meeting is centered on three facts, namely that the relationship between the Islamic world and Russia has deep historical roots that have grown stronger over time; added to this vital relationship is the geographical proximity between the two sides, which sets Russia apart from other major international powers, particularly in light of the third reality: the convergence of human and social values.

In this context, Dr. AlMalik highlighted that the cultural fabric of Kazan brings together the Russian Federation and the Islamic world, as a shared memory of knowledge, coexistence, and mutual respect. This, he noted, underscores Kazan’s status as the Culture Capital in the Islamic World for 2026. He also pointed out that ICESCO seeks to harness culture and education to build the future by developing partnerships with Russian intellectual, cultural, and scientific institutions, and by cooperating with the Republic of Tatarstan to establish a joint award bearing the name of the great poet and thinker Gabdulla Tukay.

Dr. AlMalik concluded his address by expressing his appreciation to the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tatarstan, and the organizers of the annual meeting of the Strategic Vision Group “Russia-Islamic World,” for their efforts to promote dialogue among peoples and disseminate knowledge.