Watch the video: https://s3.amazonaws.com/downloads2.unmultimedia.org/public/video/evergreen/MSG+SG+/SG+3+Aug+22/2914786_MSG+SG+WORLD+RELIGIONS+CONGRESS+03+AUG+22.mp4

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen,

I am pleased to greet the Seventh Congress of World and Traditional Religions.

I commend the Government of Kazakhstan for hosting this meeting bringing together state actors and eminent religious leaders.

We count on faith actors to use their moral voice and spiritual authority to promote mutual respect, compassion, and unity.

To resolve differences peacefully.

To recognize diversity as richness.

To stand in solidarity with one another – and with generations to come.

In these trying times, we need this spirit more than ever. 

Our world is engulfed by wars and conflict, humanitarian emergencies and environmental crises, hunger and poverty.

Hate speech and discrimination based on religion or belief continue to spread.

I ask faith leaders to promote non-violence among their communities and reject xenophobia, racism, and all forms of intolerance.

We can meet the tests of our time and build a better world for all – by coming together as one human family – sharing burdens, solving problems, and seizing opportunities.

I deeply appreciate your many contributions and the profound perspective you bring to advance the work and common values of the United Nations.

I am grateful for your activism, your wisdom, and your faith in our common humanity.

Thank you.