"THE WORLD WILL TURN INTO AN UNCONTROLLABLE AREA"

-You took part in the Second World Forum on Intercul-tural Dialogue in Baku. What has changed since the first forum in the past two years and what results have been achieved?

- The first forum was a very large and successful event. I participated in it as the organizer from ISESCO. The current forum discussed new questions. For example, ISESCO and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan organized a session entitled science and religion and prepared a document that includes important questions for all mankind. Many people believe that faith cannot bring anything to science and that science is superior to religion and supernatural ideas. In this session, we tried to explain to mankind that religion does not contradict science. This question has become one of the innovations of the forum. In other sessions, we had a conversation about the NGOs that promote intercultural dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect. The composition of the participants in the forum was quite representative. The discussions were attended by UNESCO General Secretary Irina Bokova, head of the UN Alliance of Civilizations Nassir Abdulaziz, representatives of the Council of Europe and other institutions. This shows that the forum is very important for humanity and civilization, and is the only way to solve problems between cultures, because without dialogue we will clash and fight each other.

- How can Azerbaijan influence developments in the world by hosting events like this?

- Azerbaijan is a developing country. Different religions and cultures are treated with respect here. Azerbaijan does not have a problem with anyone except for Armenia. Armenia has occupied its territory and has thus acted against international law. Azerbaijan, being a peaceful and progressive country, is open to all ideas, cultures and religions. It reaches out to everyone who wants to work for the good of the civilization. Azerbaijan plays an important role in the world by organizing such forums and proves that Muslims are peaceful, modern and civilized people. Unfortunately, some media present Muslims as people with a closed mindset, terrorists and aggressors. All this, of course, is temporary. We will always be with Azerbaijan in this regard. We must fight any forces that wish to disturb the peace. They should not interfere with the dialogue. We have to ensure peace in the region and in the world. Therefore, the international community should unite to prevent aggression, occupation and violations of international law. If someone suddenly acts against international law, everyone should act against them.

- So, there is no other way than dialogue?

- Of course, there is no other way. If you do not influence those who do not fulfill international resolutions, particularly UN Security Council resolution, superpowers will not be able to create a united front against aggression and occupation. The world may turn into an uncontrollable area. We do not want this to happen!

- Living in a world of people from different worlds. Is it easy?

- It is difficult, because the world is very different. The world is full of conflicts, tensions and extremism. But smart people are concerned about the future of the civilization, future generations, and they want peace and security. They must unite and speak with one voice. If we do not come out against black, destructive ideas and positions, no one will be able to stop them.