Chairman of the Religious Board of Muslims of Russia and the Council of Muftis of Russia, Mufti Sheikh Ravil Gaynutdin, delivered a keynote speech during the plenary session of the Group of Strategic Vision “Russia – Islamic World” on the topic “The Experience of Russia and the Islamic World in Youth Policy: Common Challenges and Joint Actions.”
Mufti Gaynutdin warmly congratulated Kazan on its designation as the Capital of Islamic Culture in 2026, expressing confidence that, by the will of the Almighty, the city—just as during the BRICS summit—will showcase its rich cultural potential to the world.
“Dialogue is the foundation of peace,” he said, quoting the Quran: ‘Invite ˹all˺ to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice, and only debate with them in the best manner.' He emphasized that this resonates with the Biblical commandment: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers.’
Addressing the trials facing the Islamic world, Mufti Gaynutdin acknowledged ongoing conflicts but noted a growing global emphasis on values of peace and neighborliness. He extended gratitude to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and other nations for their efforts in returning prisoners and children during the Ukraine conflict. “Peace and good-neighborliness align with fitrah—the natural moral inclination present in every soul,” he stated.
The Mufti also highlighted traditional family values as a safeguard “against loneliness,” affirming that “Russia and the Islamic world can serve as models in the protection of families and children.”
Marking 80 years since the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, he reminded the audience: “There is no family across the post-Soviet space untouched by that war.”
Finally, Mufti Gaynutdin praised Russia’s 20-year status as an observer in the OIC, calling it “an unprecedented chapter that will go down in history as a golden age of Christian-Islamic dialogue.”
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of Raisa RT