The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) launched the third edition of its book, “Peace 360°: Weaving the Carpet of Harmony: Peace and Multiculturalism in Azerbaijan through the Eyes of the Youth.” This special edition, dedicated to the Republic of Azerbaijan in recognition of its contributions to promoting cultural diversity and shared human values, was co-authored by 29 young people from 23 countries.

The book was launched at a major ceremony held on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, in Baku, Azerbaijan. The event brought together Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, ICESCO Director-General; Ms. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC); Mr. Adil Karimli, Minister of Culture of Azerbaijan; and several senior officials of international organizations and institutions.

The ceremony opened with remarks by Dr. AlMalik, who commended the efforts of His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, praising his steadfast commitment to intercultural dialogue through the Baku Process. He also thanked Ms. Leyla Aliyeva for penning the foreword of this edition, which underscores the importance of dialogue in achieving tangible impact.

Dr. AlMalik stated that ICESCO dedicates this edition to the Republic of Azerbaijan in recognition of its role in promoting coexistence and intercultural dialogue. He noted that the book gives young people a channel through which they can express their aspirations for shaping the future and advancing human values. It also demonstrates that dialogue is an active process through which understanding and cooperation are achieved. This vision has made peacebuilding a priority for ICESCO, which has developed its “Peace 360°” approach and the concept of Civilizational Diplomacy, and launched the Leadership Training in Peace and Security program, building the capacities of 250 Young Peace Ambassadors from 81 countries.

Dr. AlMalik also commended the role of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, under the leadership of Ms. Mehriban Aliyeva, First Vice-President, First Lady of the Republic of Azerbaijan and President of the Foundation, together with Ms. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Foundation, in advancing peacebuilding efforts in Azerbaijan and worldwide through humanitarian initiatives, support for children with disabilities, and the inclusion of youth in vulnerable situations.

Dr. AlMalik called on the Young Peace Ambassadors to promote dialogue within schools, communities, and institutions to build bridges of communication and drive change.

For her part, Ms. Leyla Aliyeva stressed the critical importance of promoting the values of peace at a time when conflicts and divisions are intensifying worldwide. She highlighted Azerbaijan’s role in supporting cultural diversity as a crossroads for different cultures, religions, and traditions, and highlighted the contributions of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation to culture, education, and environmental protection.

In his remarks, Mr. Moratinos emphasized the need for concerted international efforts to end wars and conflicts around the world, commending Azerbaijan’s initiatives in support of global peace efforts.

The ceremony then featured a video about the book, produced by ICESCO’s Media and Communication Sector. This was followed by the remarks of Mr. Alioune Ndiaye, Head of the Peace Department at ICESCO’s Social and Human Sciences Sector, and speeches by ICESCO Young Peace Ambassadors representing Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Morocco. At the close of the ceremony, Dr. AlMalik received an art piece entitled “Welcome to Karabakh.”