― 16 декабря 2025 г.

Meeting of the High-Level Group of Friends at the 11th UNAOC Global Forum in Riyadh

The High-Level Group of Friends of the UNAOC met in Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the framework of the 11th Global Forum of the latter organised by the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC).

Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Sayit Yusuf, the Deputy Secretary General of the International Organisation of Turkic Culture emphasised the vital role of intercultural dialogue, mutual understanding and the preservation of cultural diversity in establishing world peace and stability.  Deputy Secretary General Sayit Yusuf also touched upon the historical and symbolic significance of the forum being held in Riyadh. Reminding of the fact that Mecca and Medina have deep spiritual and cultural value not only for the Islamic world but also for the Turkic World, Mr. Yusuf stated that the UNAOC Global Forum reflects a common will shaped around universal values in this sacred region of the world.  Mr. Yusuf who  also referred to activities carried out by TURKSOY since 1993 to preserve and promote Turkic culture underlined its contribution to cultural diplomacy through its cooperation projects covering a wide geographical area. Deputy Secretary General Sayit Yusuf also pointed at  ongoing conflicts and security issues in various parts of the world and stressed the importance of UNAOC's mission in the face of these difficult challenges for humanity.

The meeting ended with the adoption of the Final Declaration of the 11th Global Forum of the UNAOC which focuses on the deepening of dialogue among civilisations as well as on combating hate speech, and involving young people in peace processes.