Third St. Petersburg International Religious Forum Convenes for Global Dialogue

International Religious Forum Addresses Global Challenges

The Third St. Petersburg International Religious Forum (SPIRF-25) took place on Monday, September 22, 2025, in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation. The event brought together a distinguished assembly of religious, intellectual, and academic figures from various parts of the world to engage in discussions centered on the theme: 'Interreligious Cooperation for the Spiritual and Moral Development of Humanity in the Modern World.'

Key Participants and Discussions

Among the notable participants was Dr. Abdelillah Benarafa, Deputy Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO). During a plenary session, Dr. Benarafa delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the critical role of interreligious and intercultural dialogue in addressing contemporary global challenges. He highlighted the importance of these dialogues in countering extremism and hate speech, as well as in fostering values of coexistence and peace.

The forum's agenda included a range of crucial topics aimed at strengthening interfaith relations and promoting shared values. Discussions covered:

• The significance of interreligious cooperation and future prospects for collaboration.
• The foundational role of traditional spiritual and moral values in building interreligious solidarity.
• The contribution of religious diplomacy in bridging divides between peoples and cultivating mutual understanding.

Commitment to Global Solidarity

Dr. Benarafa also outlined several of ICESCO's initiatives designed to promote interreligious and intercultural understanding, including forums on the 'Role of Religious Leaderships in the Face of Crises' and conferences on 'Civilizational Values in the Prophet's Seerah.' He reaffirmed ICESCO's dedication to establishing a global framework of solidarity that supports peace and security, and strengthens a culture of tolerance and creativity for the benefit of humanity. The forum served as a platform for leaders to explore how spiritual and moral principles can guide humanity through complex modern issues.