Baku:The 3rd edition of the 'Book of Peace,' titled 'Weaving the Carpet of Harmony Peace and Multiculturalism in Azerbaijan through the Eyes of the Youth,' was presented on October 28 during the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue. This edition, prepared by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), focuses on Azerbaijan's role in promoting peace and multiculturalism.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, praised Azerbaijan's rich culture and traditions of peaceful coexistence. He emphasized that the publication serves as both a tribute to Azerbaijan's cultural dialogue and a call to action in today's fragmented world. The book features impressions and observations of young authors about Azerbaijan's multicultural traditions.
The Director-General highlighted the contributions of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in peacebuilding efforts both within Azerbaijan and globally, emphasizing its role in promoting intercultural dialogue and humanitarian initiatives. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, reiterated the importance of peace and mutual understanding in a world marked by conflicts and division. She noted the foundation's efforts in restoring historical monuments, building educational institutions, and implementing cultural and environmental projects.
Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations, also spoke at the event. He cited the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan as a significant milestone in recent diplomatic history, comparing it to the end of apartheid in South Africa. He called for the 21st century to be the last century of wars and conflicts.
The event concluded with a video presentation of the 'Book of Peace' concept and remarks from ICESCO Youth Peace Ambassadors from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Morocco. A musical program featuring 10-year-old mugham singer Rasul Baghirov and the presentation of a painting to ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik capped off the proceedings. The book, which includes articles by 29 young leaders from the Islamic world, underscores Azerbaijan's model of peace and multiculturalism.