Rustam Minnikhanov, the Rais of Tatarstan and Head of the Group of Strategic Vision (GSV) "Russia-Islamic World", addressed the Group's leadership meeting with ambassadors from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states in Moscow. Minnikhanov highlighted the tradition of such meetings at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and noted the 55th anniversary of the OIC, the largest and most influential international association of Muslim states. Since 2005, Russia has been an observer in the OIC, a decision made by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"Enhancing cooperation with Muslim nations is a priority of Russia's foreign policy. Amidst the challenges of the current international climate, our partnerships take on even greater importance. Russia and the friendly Islamic states share a common goal of fostering comprehensive dialogue and partnership, based on mutual respect and equality. This collaboration extends beyond diplomatic relations, aiming to bolster traditional spiritual and moral values, encourage cultural diversity, and promote the dialogue of civilizations. The GSV "Russia - Islamic World" serves as a unifying international platform, facilitating these efforts," Minnikhanov noted.
He recalled the global outrage over the burning of the Quran in Sweden and Denmark in 2023, which Russia strongly condemned. He noted the Russian Orthodox Church's and Russia's Muslim spiritual leaders' response to these actions, characterizing them as unacceptable vandalism.
"Our country expresses deep concern over the escalating situation in the Middle East, the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip, the tragic loss of lives, and the immense humanitarian crisis unfolding," Minnikhanov further emphasized. In its inaugural commentary on October 12, 2023, the GSV emphasized its commitment to upholding the principles of equality, justice, and respect for the cultural and civilizational identities of peoples. Regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the GSV's leadership has aligned itself with the stance articulated by the Russian president. "Our country has consistently supported the implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions, particularly those aimed at establishing an independent, sovereign Palestinian state," the Rais of Tatarstan underscored.
Last year, the Group organized over a dozen significant events, focusing on the global agenda, fostering inter-civilizational and inter-religious dialogue, safeguarding traditional spiritual and family values, enhancing humanitarian cooperation, cultivating youth ties and exchanges, and improving information flows and communication. This year, the Group will continue its work in accordance with the approved plan.
"I would like to highlight the upcoming International Economic Forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum," scheduled for May. This event, deemed of federal importance by the President, has become annual since last year. In 2023, the forum attracted over 16,000 participants from 80 countries and 86 Russian regions. Additionally, the event welcomed the participation of heads from more than forty diplomatic missions accredited in Moscow," Minnikhanov recalled.
The business program for the upcoming forum in May has already been established. Last year, KazanForum was highlighted by a crucial meeting of the Group, which included the participation of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus'. This year, the Group's annual meeting is also scheduled for May 16-17, with the theme focusing on "Russia - Islamic World: A Just Multipolar World Order and Secure Development."
"Tatarstan, one of Russia's leading regions, exemplifies Russia's growing engagement with the Islamic world. Beyond fostering trade, economic, and investment partnerships, we are also making significant strides in cultivating cultural and humanitarian connections. Tatarstan stands out as a pioneer in integrating Islamic banking and financing principles into the Russian economy. Efforts are ongoing to expand the halal industry, and there's a strong emphasis on Islamic education. Notably, Kazan was designated as the OIC Youth Capital in 2022, and we host the Kazan Global Youth Summit annually in August," Minnikhanov informed.
In 2025, Kazan, backed by federal authorities and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, aims to host the inaugural Islamic Youth Games. This event will feature athletes aged 14-16 from over 40 Islamic countries, competing in 20 different sports, as announced by Rustam Minnikhanov.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the Rais RT