Baku Forum Declaration adopted to refect peace initiatives

There is no justification for violent extremism and all its forms and manifestations cannot and should not be associated with any religion, race, nationality, civilization or ethnic group, said a declaration adopted here Tuesday by the 7th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).

The participants of the forum recognized the importance of intercultural and interreligious dialogue and cooperation in order to promote tolerance, pluralism and mutual respect and expressed their support for the diverse initiatives taken by governments, international organizations and civil society.

The Baku Forum Declaration also underlined the usefulness of the UNAOC Global Forums as platforms where international, regional and sub-regional organizations can share experiences and collaborate toward developing and implementing global and regional strategies for intercultural dialogue and cooperation.

The three-day forum kicked off here Tuesday and has brought together more than 2,500 delegates, including heads of state and government, high-level officials, politicians, public figures, representatives of leading international organizations and think tanks, and scientists.

Welcoming the representatives of more than 140 countries who gathered in Baku, Azerbaijani President Ilham said that his country is not only a geographic bridge between East and West, but also a cultural bridge. "For centuries, representatives of religions, cultures lived in peace and dignity in Azerbaijan," he said.

Also speaking in the opening session was Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan who said "terror and terrorism have nothing in common with Islam."

He added that terrorists don't have religious affiliation and national identity.

UNAOC High Representative Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser said during the opening session: "The Alliance is the soft power tool established to contribute to a more peaceful world by countering radicalization and polarization, by encouraging greater intercultural understanding and engaging in projects and programs that advance these goals."

He said that this year's theme converges with the four pillars of the UN: peace and security, human rights, rule of law, and development.

Themed "Living Together in Inclusive Societies: A Challenge and A Goal", the forum will explore the relevance of inclusive societies for preventing violent extremism, creating peace and enhancing sustainable development.

Secretary General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon addressed the forum via video conference.

The forum has brought together more than 2,500 delegates, including heads of state and government, high-level officials, politicians, public figures, representatives of leading international organizations and think tanks, and scientists.

UNAOC was established in 2005 as the political initiative of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and co-sponsored by the governments of Spain and Turkey.

The global forum's organizers include UNAOC, UNESCO, UNWTO, ISESCO and Council of Europe. Endit