By Dawda Baldeh
At the inaugural World Public Assembly in Moscow, Russia, over 4,000 delegates from 150 countries gathered to propose innovative tools for international relations aimed at fostering lasting peaceful coexistence.
Among the distinguished attendees were Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN Secretary-General’s High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations; Nurlan Yermekbayev, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO); Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s Foreign Minister; and other notable leaders from various sectors.
Valentina Matviyenko, Chairperson of the Federation Council of Russia, emphasized the importance of the Assembly in strengthening international partnerships, stating, “I am confident that the Assembly will become an authoritative platform that will foster dialogue between countries and public diplomacy.”
Deputy Secretary-General of the SCO, Ms. Liao Yangfan, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Assembly’s role in amplifying voices advocating for mutual respect and understanding among nations.
Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council, remarked on the Assembly’s historical significance, noting, “We are writing global public history.”
Sergey Lavrov underscored the need for respect for cultural roots and values in a turbulent world, while cosmonaut Ivan Vagner reflected on the fragility of Earth from space, suggesting that mutual support observed in space missions could be mirrored on our planet.
Andrey Belyaninov, Secretary-General of the World Public Assembly, expressed optimism, stating, “Everything can be agreed upon,” which set a hopeful tone for the discussions ahead.
The central event, titled “New World of Conscious Unity,” featured a plenary session that outlined the ideological framework for international dialogue. Experts discussed pressing global challenges, emphasizing the growing disunity among states and the importance of public diplomacy and humanitarian initiatives as alternatives for peaceful coexistence.
Key questions posed during the session included the potential for a universal humanitarian language, effective public diplomacy strategies, and the reconciliation of national identity with global responsibility.
Hilary Franco, Advisor to the Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the UN, poignantly remarked on humanity’s common denominator, urging for mutual understanding as a path to salvation from division.
Alexandra Ochirova, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, highlighted the intrinsic connection between humanity and culture, asserting that united minds can overcome global challenges.
The Assembly brought together leaders in public diplomacy, including representatives from various sectors and regions, fostering a diverse dialogue on cooperation.
The event also attracted over 200 journalists from around the globe, underscoring the Assembly’s significance in the international arena.
Belyaninov encouraged all attendees to consider joining the organization as full members, inviting a broader coalition for peace and cooperation.
In conclusion, the World Public Assembly serves as a pivotal platform for redefining international relations, promoting a vision of unity and collaboration among diverse cultures and nations.
The discussions and proposals emerging from this Assembly may pave the way for a new architecture of peaceful coexistence in a complex global landscape.
