President Ilham Aliyev has addressed the participants of the Global Summit of Religious Leaders held in Baku.

Axar.az reports that the message was read by Prime Minister Ali Asadov.

The text reads:

"Dear Summit Participants,

I warmly greet you in Baku on the occasion of the opening of the Global Summit of Religious Leaders held under the slogan 'World Religions for a Green Planet.'

Today, our world faces serious threats to humanity’s existence and future, arising from climate change, pollution of the atmosphere and environment, drought and desertification, loss of biodiversity, water scarcity, food shortages, and other global ecological problems.

The climate crisis and ecological security issues require the joint cooperation of world states and the unification of efforts at all levels of the international community.

In line with the principles of inclusivity at COP events, I highly appreciate the gathering of esteemed religious leaders and their commitment to contribute to the common cause for the fate of our planet.

The rich spiritual potential of various faiths and beliefs has the power to drive solutions to the existential problems posed by climate change.

World religious leaders can play a significant role in addressing these challenges.

The unanimous decision to hold COP29 in Azerbaijan is a clear demonstration of the high level of trust in our country's international reputation, and this is no coincidence.

Azerbaijan has joined many conventions and agreements related to ecological problems, created mutual cooperation ties with various countries, and adopted multi-faceted action programs in this area.

In our country, a necessary legislative framework for environmental protection has been established, along with efficient institutional mechanisms and an investment environment.

Currently, important steps are being taken towards the implementation of "green energy" projects, the use of alternative and renewable energy sources, and assessing and eliminating negative environmental impacts.

Azerbaijan has declared 2024 as the 'Year of Solidarity for a Green World.'

To combat climate change and ecological issues, ensuring international security, peace, and stability is one of the crucial factors.

In the recent past, our country was subjected to unjust territorial claims and was drawn into a war, enduring the heavy consequences of this bloody conflict.

During your visit to Azerbaijan's historic land of Karabakh, you will have the opportunity to witness firsthand the bitter consequences of crimes such as ecocide, culturecide, and urbicide committed during the 30 years of occupation by Armenia. You will also directly witness the large-scale reconstruction efforts based on a green economy and renewable energy aimed at restoring ecological balance in the region.

Hosting prestigious events like the Global Summit of Religious Leaders, where humanity’s problems are discussed, has become a tradition in Azerbaijan.

I am confident that this Summit, through its productive activities, will further strengthen our country’s status as a hub for inter-civilizational dialogue and make a substantial contribution to the 'Baku Process' of intercultural cooperation. Our solidarity for a green world, your wise proposals, and recommendations will support us in achieving our common goals.

Dear Religious Leaders,

I am sure that the Summit, dedicated to pressing global issues, will proceed in a spirit of constructive dialogue. The possibility of institutionalizing the interfaith cooperation platform within the COP framework will be discussed. For this purpose, Azerbaijan, a land of tolerance and multiculturalism, is the most suitable place.

Once again, I extend my best wishes to you and wish each of you success in your noble activities for the future of humanity."