Today, 27 October, President of the Turkic Academy, Prof. Dr. Shahin Mustafayev addressed the Special Joint Meeting of International Organizations and Ministers held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue is taking place in Baku on 27–29 October 2026 under the theme “Dialogue for a Common Future: Bridging Divides in a Divided World.” The opening ceremony was attended by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.
Held within the framework of the Baku Process, launched in 2008, the forum marks its 15th anniversary this year. It is organized by the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan in cooperation with UNESCO, the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), and other international organizations. The forum brings together representatives of governments, international organizations, academia, and civil society to discuss ways to strengthen intercultural dialogue and international cooperation.
As part of the forum, the Third High-Level Meeting of International Organizations within the Baku Process was held, bringing together representatives of international organizations and ministers to discuss ways to enhance international cooperation in intercultural dialogue. The meeting was held under the theme “From Partnership to Collective Action: Strengthening Global Synergy for Intercultural Dialogue.”
In his address, Prof. Dr. Shahin Mustafayev presented a number of practical proposals for strengthening intercultural dialogue through the experience of the Turkic World. He outlined four priority areas for cooperation: developing the Turkic World Cultural Routes Program; strengthening cooperation among managers of historic cities and cultural heritage sites; promoting joint nominations of the Turkic World’s shared cultural heritage for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List; and enhancing cooperation among the Caspian littoral countries in environmental protection.
“Throughout history, the Turkic lands have connected peoples and civilizations across Eurasia. The Great Silk Road is a clear example of how our region facilitated the exchange of ideas, knowledge, religions, and artistic traditions,” Shahin Mustafayev noted.
The forum aims to strengthen international cooperation and advance practical approaches to promoting peace, mutual understanding, and respect for cultural diversity. Its programme features plenary sessions, high-level meetings, thematic discussions, and events bringing together representatives from different countries and international organizations.
