There is no justification for violent extremism and all its forms and manifestations cannot and should not be associated with any religion, race, nationality, civilization or ethnic group, said a declaration adopted here Tuesday by the 7th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).


The participants of the forum recognized the importance of intercultural and interreligious dialogue and cooperation in order to promote tolerance, pluralism and mutual respect and expressed their support for the diverse initiatives taken by governments, international organizations and civil society.


The Baku Forum Declaration also underlined the usefulness of the UNAOC Global Forums as platforms where international, regional and sub-regional organizations can share experiences and collaborate toward developing and implementing global and regional strategies for intercultural dialogue and cooperation.


The three-day forum kicked off here Tuesday and has brought together more than 2,500 delegates, including heads of state and government, high-level officials, politicians, public figures, representatives of leading international organizations and think tanks, and scientists.


Welcoming the representatives of more than 140 countries who gathered in Baku, Azerbaijani President Ilham said that his country is not only a geographic bridge between East and West, but also a cultural bridge. "For centuries, representatives of religions, cultures lived in peace and dignity in Azerbaijan," he said.

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