KAZAN, TATARSTAN – The Federal Republic of Somalia took part in a key cultural diplomacy initiative this week, as Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, H.E. Daud Aweis, represented the nation at the Congress of Ministers of Culture of the Islamic World and Russia, held in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan.
The high-level gathering brought together culture ministers and senior officials from across the Islamic world and the Russian Federation to foster intercultural dialogue, promote shared values, and explore opportunities for collaboration in sustainable development through cultural exchange.
Senior cultural policymakers from dozens of countries in the Islamic world, along with their Russian counterparts, gathered under one roof to discuss the evolving role of culture in international relations. Minister Daud Aweis attended on behalf of Somalia, reaffirming the country’s commitment to regional and global cooperation in cultural matters.
In his address to the congress, Minister Aweis emphasized the indispensable role of culture in a rapidly globalizing world.
“Culture is not just an expression of identity—it is a bridge that connects people, nurtures understanding, and strengthens peace,” he told delegates.
He also underscored Somalia’s long-standing ties to the Islamic world and highlighted how shared history and cultural heritage can be harnessed to build trust, reinforce diplomacy, and support long-term stability.
“As a proud member of the Islamic community, Somalia cherishes its deep historical, spiritual, and cultural bonds with Muslim nations across the globe,” Minister Aweis noted.
The congress comes at a time when the global landscape faces mounting geopolitical tensions, social fragmentation, and cultural misunderstandings. Events like these serve as platforms to counter such challenges through inclusive dialogue and cooperative engagement. Somalia’s participation reflects its proactive diplomatic outreach and its vision of culture as a unifying force.
Minister Aweis concluded his remarks by congratulating Kazan on being selected as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World for 2026, an honour that acknowledges the city’s vibrant cultural landscape and historical significance in the Muslim world. He extended best wishes to the government and people of Tatarstan, hoping the designation will catalyze further progress in cultural diplomacy.
Somalia’s involvement in such multilateral cultural forums underscores its increasing engagement in international platforms that go beyond politics and security—signaling a broader commitment to people-centered diplomacy, intercultural understanding, and global cooperation.
