The forum was officially opened by the president of the Academy of Sciences, Kanatbek Abdrakhmatov, who emphasized the importance of a culture of dialogue in society. He noted that countries face internal contradictions and international conflicts, and it is necessary to respond actively to minimize the consequences for the peoples. Dialogue, he said, is the key to overcoming civilizational rifts.
Kanatbek Abdrakhmatov stated: "Our forum provides a space for experts in a rapidly changing world. The transition from conflict to dialogue reflects a high level of intellectual culture. I am convinced that our event will contribute to strengthening unity, which is the foundation of peace, and sustainable development in Kyrgyzstan."
Doctor of Political Science Adash Toktosunova, who has dedicated her life to dialogue between cultures, emphasized the connection between conflict and security issues, as well as dialogue and sustainable development. She also noted that the forum was made possible thanks to her initiative and was timed to her anniversary.
Adash Toktosunova expressed concern about the global crisis of dialogue and the diversity of conflicts: "Our task as Kyrgyz is not just to survive but to create conditions for sustainable development and hope for the future. We must offer the people a 'roadmap'."
Doctor of Political Science Tokon Mamytov added that in conditions where dialogue is often replaced by weapons, it is necessary to remember the power of words. He reminded of numerous examples of historical dialogues that ended in peace instead of conflicts and emphasized the importance of teaching people to listen to each other.
Nur Saralaev, director of the A. Altymyshbaev Institute of Philosophy of the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, noted that the 20th century became an era of wars and conflicts, and now it is necessary to return to dialogue as the primary method of their resolution. He proposed to implement conflictology courses in educational institutions of Kyrgyzstan.
Jyldyz Kurmanbetova, head of the philosophy department at the Kyrgyz-Turkish University "Manas," emphasized that modern humanity is facing a global crisis, and philosophy can play an important role in overcoming it through establishing dialogue.
Narynbek Toktosunov pointed out the necessity of dialogue for resolving conflicts, reminding of the folk wisdom: "A bad peace is better than a good quarrel." He emphasized that it is essential to listen to the opinions of all parties to avoid open conflicts.
Elvira Borombaev, the general director of the Central Asian Center for Alternative Dispute Resolution, noted that modern dispute resolution methods should consider hybrid approaches. She also discussed how mediation can become an effective tool for finding mutually acceptable solutions.
Borombaev drew attention to the new mediation law signed by the President, which makes this tool mandatory for all civil disputes. She expressed hope that Bishkek will become a center for dispute resolution thanks to Kyrgyzstan's efforts on the international stage.
The forum served as a platform for seeking joint approaches to conflict resolution, and its results will be directed to the country's leadership and the UN.
