Patriarch Kirill and Pakistani Ambassador Highlight Shared Values, Religious Dialogue

DECR and OCP News Service – 07/02/2025

Moscow- Russia: His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia met with Muhammad Khalid Jamali, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia, at the Danilov Monastery on February 6, 2025. The meeting focused on the positive experience of Orthodox-Islamic interaction in Russia and the importance of interreligious dialogue in the face of contemporary challenges.

Patriarch Kirill emphasized the long history of peaceful coexistence between Orthodox Christians and Muslims in Russia, noting the absence of religious conflict. He stressed that this cooperation is crucial for strengthening their shared position as people of faith, particularly in a world where traditional values and religious beliefs face increasing pressure. He cited the legalization of “gender reassignment,” including for minors, as a worrying trend that contradicts God’s plan and challenges all believers.

“This is an invasion of human nature that is contrary to God’s plan. This is a challenge to all of us, people who believe in God,” Patriarch Kirill stated.

He underscored the growing importance of Orthodox-Islamic dialogue, highlighting the agreement between the two faiths in Russia on preserving traditional values. “We believe in one God, who created the world and man. We are convinced that God’s commandments should be the norms that determine human life. And this means that we are united in the most important issue,” the Patriarch said. He concluded that Christians and Muslims must work together to shape the future of civilization.

Ambassador Jamali expressed solidarity with Patriarch Kirill’s views, emphasizing the significant role of religious leaders in improving international relations. He praised Russia as a model for peaceful coexistence between Christians and Muslims, noting the mutual acceptance among various religious groups. “When I look at the Orthodox Church, I see that we have many common values, especially in terms of the importance of family,” Jamali stated.

The ambassador stressed the importance of fostering people-to-people connections, in addition to strengthening cooperation in areas like economy, energy, and infrastructure. He pledged to promote dialogue and communication between religious figures in Russia and Pakistan.

Source:

OCP News Services and DECR