During the talks in the Pontifical Library of the Apostolic Palace, the Pontiff noted that Kazakhstan is a reliable partner of the Vatican in Central Asia. The head of the Roman Catholic Church highly appreciated the political and economic reforms initiated by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev, as part of the construction of the "New Kazakhstan" and the upcoming national referendum on amendments to the Constitution.
The parties discussed the agenda of the upcoming VII Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which will be held in September this year in the capital of Kazakhstan. The Pontiff noted with satisfaction the contribution of Kazakhstan to the promotion of interfaith harmony and interreligious dialogue.
The historic decision of Pope Francis to pay a state visit to Kazakhstan and participate in the work of the Congress was especially noted. The minister said that Catholics not only from Kazakhstan, but also from all of Central Asia are looking forward to the Pope's arrival.
On the same day, M. Tleuberdi held separate bilateral talks with the Secretary of State (Prime Minister) of the Holy See, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Chairman of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, Cardinal Miguel Angel Ayuso Giksot.
The parties discussed the further development of cooperation between Kazakhstan and the Holy See in the field of spiritual harmony and mutual respect.
For a significant contribution to the development of interfaith dialogue and the promotion of the ideas of the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, M. Tleuberdi, on behalf of the Head of State, presented the Order of Dostyk, II degree, to M.A. Ayuso Giksot.
