Baku concludes International Forum for Intercultural Dialogue

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said that the republic wanted to see more cooperation within the framework of inter-religious and intercultural relations. He expressed willingness to contribute to inter-civilization dialogue, concluding the second International Forum for Intercultural Dialogue, Trend reports.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov said that intercultural dialogue should benefit all sides and boost progress in all fields.

Bulgarian ex-President Georgy Parvanov paid special attention to strengthening ties of the East and West.

Croatian ex-President Stepan Stjepan Mesic noted the need to overcome controversies between Balkan countries.

UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova stressed on protection of monuments. She added that efforts should be put into encouraging young people to take part in cultural programs.

Azerbaijani Minister for Education Mikhail Jabbarov pointed out that there were many cases of history distortions. He believes that history should consolidate peoples and should be taught properly.

Azerbaijani Minister for Culture and Tourism Abulfas Garayev emphasized the need for atmosphere of trust between peoples. It is a matter of time and reflects globalization. He called culture and tourism an instrument for consolidation.

Baku will host the third international forum in 2015. President Aliyev proposed formation of a special committee to organize the next forum in a meeting with ISESCO and UNESCO authorities.