The presentation of the 3rd edition of ICESCO's "Book of Peace" dedicated to Azerbaijan was held in Baku

On October 28, within the framework of the VII World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, a presentation was held of the III edition of the "Book of Peace" prepared by the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), titled "Shades of Harmony: Peace and Multiculturalism in Azerbaijan Through the Eyes of Youth," dedicated to Azerbaijan.

As reported by AZERTAC, ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed Al-Malik, who spoke at the event, noted that Azerbaijan, with its rich culture, centuries-old traditions of peaceful coexistence, and unwavering commitment to intercultural dialogue, is an inspiring example for the entire world.

He emphasized that this edition is an expression of respect for the culture of dialogue that has developed in Azerbaijan, as well as a call to action. The "Book of Peace" carries a very important message for today's divided world. The traditions of multiculturalism in Azerbaijan are presented on the pages of this book through the lens of the authors' observations and impressions.

The Director-General said that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation makes an invaluable contribution to building peace in Azerbaijan and across the planet. Through humanitarian initiatives and support for intercultural dialogue, the Foundation builds bridges between societies.

Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva emphasized in her speech that at a time when conflicts, division, and intolerance continue to divide the planet, peace and mutual understanding are more important than ever. ICESCO has always served as a platform for dialogue between different cultures, religions, and civilizations. For over 20 years, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation has been implementing projects in the fields of culture, education, environmental protection, and humanitarian affairs, promoting true values. Over the years, the Foundation has restored numerous historical and cultural monuments, built hundreds of schools and kindergartens, contributed to the protection of national parks and wildlife, and implemented numerous projects in Azerbaijan and other countries around the world.

Leyla Aliyeva noted that the "Book of Peace" carries a profoundly meaningful message — to live in peace, to feel respect, to be understood and surrounded by care.

Emphasizing that in recent years in the history of diplomacy and international relations there have been only two positive developments for him, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General, High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations, and UN Special Envoy for Combating Islamophobia said: "The first is the end of the apartheid regime in South Africa. The second is the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan, initiated by President Ilham Aliyev, which he mentioned yesterday in his speech," said Miguel Ángel Moratinos.

He stressed that the 21st century must become the last century of wars and conflicts, and that wars must be brought to an end.

A video presentation on the concept of the "Book of Peace" was then shown.

This was followed by speeches from ICESCO Young Peace Ambassadors from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Morocco.

The event concluded with a musical program performed by 10-year-old khanende Rasul Bagirov. Additionally, a painting by artist Mir Azer Abdullayev titled "Welcome to Karabakh" was presented as a gift to ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed Al-Malik.

It should be noted that the presented edition highlights Azerbaijan's role in promoting peace, strengthening interreligious and intercultural solidarity, as well as the international significance of the Azerbaijani model of multiculturalism.

The book also includes articles by 29 young leaders from various countries of the Islamic world. Each of these young people visited Azerbaijan and shared their impressions, based on personal experience, of the model of peace, multiculturalism, and peaceful coexistence that has been established in the country.

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