The world, based only on politics, cannot win the sincere support of peoples. The world must be based on the intellectual and moral solidarity of humanity, Irina Bokova, the 10th Director-General of UNESCO (2009-2017), told speaking at the "Chingiz Aitmatov International Forum of Writers and Intellectuals" videoconference.
According to her, the theme of respect for cultural diversity is of special importance in the modern world. Globalization allowed pulling millions of people out of poverty but the world community is deeply fragmented. Historical changes in the world require constant rethinking of the world to ensure a better future.
There are questions facing the modern world especially acutely: will we agree with a division on barriers of nations, cultures and civilizations, or will we grow up as one family and use it for strengthening mankind?
Bokova expressed concern over racism, xenophobia and all kinds of stereotypes spreading in the world.
"I am sure that all cultures flow into one river - the river of human civilization," she emphasized, adding that no culture prospers in isolation. Cultures have always influenced each other and enriched each other.
The former Director-General of UNESCO also focused on the experience of working with Tatarstan. According to her, she visited the Republic several times.
The Bolgar historical complex and Sviyazhsk Island are monuments that symbolize a bridge of tolerance and mutual respect. These are not just geographical locations on the map of Russia, they are lighthouses for intercultural dialogue around the world, Irina Bokova said.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"