Diplomacy of Coexistence and Security: Institutional Meeting at the Angullia Mosque in Singapore

Singapore – The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, continues its commitment to promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence and cooperation among communities through institutional engagement with local religious and civic representatives.

As part of this commitment, Father Marco Baragli, Cooperation Advisor of WOS-IPSP, visited the historic Angullia Mosque in Singapore's Little India district, where he held an institutional meeting with Packer Mohamed Rafeek, member of the mosque's management committee, and Abdul Rashid, operations assistant.

The discussions focused on issues of peace, interfaith coexistence, social cohesion and the prevention of human trafficking, examined within the unique institutional and multicultural context of the Republic of Singapore.

Regarding the issue of human trafficking, the representatives of the mosque emphasized that the phenomenon is effectively absent within Singapore due to comprehensive legislation, rigorous border controls and an efficient institutional framework. According to the participants, maintaining public security and social stability remains one of the country's highest priorities.

The meeting also offered an opportunity to examine Singapore's distinctive approach to interfaith relations. Rather than encouraging theological debate between different religions, the national model promotes mutual respect and guarantees every individual the freedom to practice his or her own faith. Interfaith relations are coordinated through governmental institutions, particularly the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) and the Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, ensuring that potential community concerns are addressed through established institutional mechanisms, including the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act.

The choice of the Angullia Mosque as the venue for the meeting carries significant historical and symbolic importance. Established in the late nineteenth century through the charitable wakaf endowment of Indian Muslim merchant Mohammed Salleh Eusoffjee Angullia, the mosque has long served as a spiritual, educational and social reference point for Singapore's Indian Muslim community and for many foreign workers living in the city-state.

The visit highlighted the important contribution that religious institutions can make in strengthening trust, encouraging dialogue and supporting peaceful coexistence within multicultural societies. Experiences such as Singapore's demonstrate how cooperation between public institutions and faith communities can contribute to long-term social harmony and stability.

For WOS-IPSP, initiatives of this nature reflect the importance of preventive diplomacy, intercultural understanding and constructive engagement among communities as essential elements for sustainable peace and international cooperation.

Cooperation and the Protection of Human Dignity: Dialogue at St. Andrew's Cathedral in Singapore

The institutional mission of the Rev. Marco Baragli, Cooperation Advisor to the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, continues across Southeast Asia. Following previous institutional meetings, the mission reached Singapore this morning, where Rev. Baragli met with the Vicar of St. Andrew's Anglican Cathedral, the Reverend Christopher Chan.

The promotion of social peace, interfaith dialogue, and the protection of human dignity remain fundamental pillars for the stability of contemporary societies. In a regional context marked by challenges related to security, migration, and the safeguarding of fundamental rights, strengthening cooperation between public institutions and faith communities is of particular importance.

The meeting provided an opportunity for an in-depth discussion on the contribution that interfaith dialogue can make to preventing social tensions and promoting peaceful coexistence throughout Southeast Asia.

Particular attention was devoted to the role of Singapore's Presidential Council for Religious Harmony, a body that regularly brings together representatives of the country's major religious communities. According to Reverend Christopher Chan, the Council represents an essential instrument for building mutual trust among different faiths, encouraging continuous dialogue that contributes to conflict prevention and reinforces national cohesion.

The discussion also addressed the issue of human trafficking, one of the most serious violations of human dignity. It was noted that Singapore has established a comprehensive legal framework to combat labour and sexual exploitation. Nevertheless, its strategic location and reliance on foreign labour continue to expose the country to attempts by transnational criminal networks to exploit vulnerable migrant workers.

The dialogue further examined the broader regional context, with particular reference to relations with neighbouring Malaysia. While different political sensitivities and national approaches to migration and security remain, it was emphasized that combating transnational crime requires effective international cooperation. In this regard, ASEAN cooperation mechanisms continue to play a vital operational role by facilitating intelligence sharing, monitoring cross-border movements, and countering criminal organizations involved in human exploitation.

The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, reaffirms that the protection of human dignity, the promotion of religious freedom, dialogue among faith communities, and multilateral cooperation are essential pillars for building peaceful, inclusive, and resilient societies capable of effectively addressing the common challenges facing both the region and the international community.

Terza Edizione di "Un Calcio alla Guerra – Kick War Away": cresce il sostegno delle istituzioni

La World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), organizzazione intergovernativa, accoglie con soddisfazione il costante ampliamento del sostegno istituzionale alla Terza Edizione di "Un Calcio alla Guerra – Kick War Away", in programma il 9 e 10 ottobre 2026 nei Comuni di Ceranesi, Campomorone e Genova.

La locandina istituzionale raccoglie i patrocini e le adesioni ufficiali finora pervenuti da Comuni italiani, enti locali esteri, associazioni e organizzazioni che hanno scelto di sostenere l'iniziativa, confermando il comune impegno nella promozione della pace, del dialogo, della cooperazione tra i popoli e della convivenza attraverso lo sport.

L'elenco dei patrocini e delle adesioni sarà costantemente aggiornato con l'arrivo di nuove conferme istituzionali fino allo svolgimento della manifestazione.

English

Third Edition of "Kick War Away": International Institutional Support Continues to Grow

Brief description

The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, welcomes the continued expansion of institutional support for the Third Edition of "Kick War Away – International Peace March", scheduled for 9–10 October 2026 in Ceranesi, Campomorone and Genoa, Italy.

The official poster highlights the growing participation of Italian municipalities, international local authorities, associations and civil society organizations that have formally endorsed the initiative. This broad institutional network reflects a shared commitment to promoting peace, dialogue, social cohesion and international cooperation through sport and community engagement.

The list of supporting institutions will continue to be updated as further official endorsements and patronages are received before the event.

Unity Among Faiths and Compassion: Religious Dialogue as a Path to Peace and Human Security

In a context of persistent global tensions and complex humanitarian challenges, dialogue among religious leaders continues to represent an important contribution to the promotion of peace, mutual understanding, and social cohesion.

Against this backdrop, Father Marco Baragli, Counsellor of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, held an official meeting in Kota Bharu, Malaysia, with Chief Monk Cru Wan Wan Cool, head of the Tumpat District in the State of Kelantan. During the meeting, the Chief Monk explained that his jurisdiction extends over five Siamese Buddhist temples in the region: Wat Pikulthong, Wat Phothivihan, Wat Machimmaram, Wat Mai Suwan Kiri, and Wat Kok Seraya.

The discussion provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on the role that religious teachings can play in preventing conflict, strengthening ethical values, and promoting respect for human dignity.

During the meeting, the Chief Monk offered an explanation of the symbolism of the standing, sitting, and reclining representations of the Buddha, emphasizing that these statues commemorate the life and teachings of a historical human being rather than a deity. According to his explanation, the different postures reflect stages of the Buddha's mission to guide humanity and transmit moral principles to his disciples. He underlined that authentic faith is demonstrated through the practical application of ethical teachings in everyday life.

The dialogue also focused on the rejection of violence as a means of resolving conflicts. Cru Wan Wan Cool stressed that violence cannot generate lasting justice and affirmed that compassion and loving-kindness are essential foundations for peaceful societies. Referring to the challenge of human trafficking, he described it as an immoral practice rooted in greed and selfishness, emphasizing that every human being possesses equal dignity and deserves compassion and protection. He further noted that addressing such crimes requires not only effective legal measures but also education that fosters ethical awareness and what Buddhist teaching identifies as Samma Ditthi (Right View).

The conversation examined the relationship between legislation and moral responsibility. While acknowledging the existence of established legal systems in Malaysia and Thailand, the Chief Monk encouraged legislators and governments to continue drawing inspiration from the ethical values promoted by their respective religious traditions. Referring to the Five Precepts of Buddhism, he recalled principles that discourage killing, stealing, false speech, sexual misconduct, and intoxicants, observing that adherence to these moral foundations can contribute to more peaceful and secure communities.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of mutual appreciation and a shared recognition that cooperation among religious communities can strengthen efforts aimed at promoting peace, respect, and solidarity. The discussion reaffirmed that constructive dialogue between different faith traditions represents a valuable contribution to international understanding and to the broader objectives of human security and peaceful coexistence, principles consistently supported by the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization.

Crystal Mosque Calls on WOS-IPSP to Strengthen Dialogue for Peace in Malaysia

Kuala Terengganu (Malaysia), 11 July 2026

Crystal Mosque Calls on WOS-IPSP to Strengthen Dialogue for Peace in Malaysia

At the Crystal Mosque in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, a meeting took place between the Cooperation Counselor of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, Rev. Marco Baragli, and the President of the mosque, Dr. Fazal b. Ismail. The meeting focused on promoting interreligious dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and strengthening cooperation at the local and international levels.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Ismail requested that an official photograph be taken inside the mosque, facing the Qibla, the direction of Mecca. The gesture was intended to symbolize the shared commitment to conducting dialogue in a spirit of respect, transparency, and responsibility, placing peace and mutual understanding at the center of future cooperation.

The discussions highlighted the challenges currently affecting interreligious relations in parts of Malaysia. According to Dr. Ismail, initiatives aimed at opening channels of dialogue between different religious communities often encounter significant obstacles, limiting opportunities for constructive engagement. In this context, Father Marco Baragli emphasized the importance of building cooperation around shared humanitarian and social values rather than focusing on theological differences. The discussion explored how common objectives—including education, solidarity, social cohesion, and respect for human dignity—can provide a practical foundation for lasting dialogue.

Within this framework, the President of the Crystal Mosque formally expressed his desire for the WOS-IPSP to facilitate contacts and create opportunities for cooperation among religious, institutional, and civil society representatives in Malaysia, with the objective of encouraging initiatives dedicated to peace and mutual understanding.

The meeting also addressed broader international developments, including the current tensions in the Middle East. During the exchange, Dr. Ismail reflected on the historical coexistence between Jewish and Muslim communities in Persia and expressed concern that contemporary conflicts increasingly overshadow centuries of shared history. Participants underlined that sustainable peace requires continuous dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual recognition, while acknowledging that modern conflicts are often influenced by complex political, strategic, and economic dynamics extending beyond religious considerations.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue promoting dialogue, confidence-building measures, and international cooperation as essential instruments for preventing conflict and strengthening peaceful coexistence among peoples and nations, in line with the mission of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization.

Education for Peace: The WOS Vision from Malaysia’s Kek Lok Si Temple

PENANG (Malaysia), 5 July 2026 – The historic Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, today became the setting for a remarkable moment of dialogue, friendship, and mutual respect between representatives of different faiths united by a common aspiration: building a more peaceful world through education, understanding, and cooperation.

The meeting brought together Venerable Dato' Seri Seck Jit Heng, President of the Malaysian Buddhist Association, and Father Marco Baragli, Cooperation Councilor of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization. Their exchange reflected the conviction that authentic peace is born not from the absence of differences, but from the willingness to understand and respect them.

Surrounded by the extraordinary beauty of the "Temple of Supreme Bliss," renowned for its magnificent seven-story pagoda combining Chinese, Thai and Burmese architectural traditions, the participants explored the role that education and spirituality can play in preventing conflict and promoting international harmony.

During the dialogue, Venerable Seck Jit Heng offered a profound reflection on the essence of Buddhist teaching:

"The Buddha is not a god; Buddha is education. Our mission is to educate ourselves to create peace in every situation. If everyone acts only according to personal desires, there can be no peace. You and I are symbols of peace."

His words highlighted one of the central principles of Buddhist philosophy: peace begins with inner transformation. Rather than focusing on individual ambition or ego, humanity is called to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and self-discipline, thereby creating the conditions for peaceful coexistence.

Father Marco Baragli welcomed this vision, emphasizing that Christianity also considers peace a responsibility entrusted to every human being. While Buddhism stresses overcoming the ego through awareness and education, Christianity calls believers to overcome selfishness through love of neighbor and reconciliation.

Although rooted in different religious traditions, both perspectives converge on a shared conviction: lasting peace requires personal commitment, ethical education, and respect for human dignity.

This message closely reflects the mission of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, which promotes dialogue among peoples, peaceful cooperation between nations, and the resolution of disputes through diplomacy rather than confrontation.

The meeting concluded with a symbolic exchange of blessings. The Buddhist representative wished, "May Buddha bless you," while Father Baragli responded, "May God bless you." These expressions did not seek to erase theological differences but demonstrated that sincere goodwill and respect can unite people of different beliefs without compromising their own identities.

Statement by Ambassador Alfredo Maiolese

H.E. Ambassador Alfredo Maiolese, Secretary-General of the World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), intergovernmental organization, declared:

"Peace cannot be imposed solely through political agreements; it must be cultivated through education, mutual respect, and sincere dialogue among cultures and religions. Meetings such as this demonstrate that diplomacy is strongest when it is supported by moral values and by the willingness to listen. The World Organization of States will continue to encourage every initiative that transforms diversity into cooperation and builds bridges where others see barriers."

From the hills of Penang, today's encounter offers a meaningful reminder that the path toward global peace begins with education, mutual understanding, and the courage to recognize our shared humanity.

Interfaith Dialogue in Malaysia: A Shared Prayer for Peace at the Kapitan Keling Mosque

GEORGE TOWN (PENANG), Malaysia – 4 July 2026

The World Organization of States – International Parliament for Safety and Peace (WOS-IPSP), an intergovernmental organization, welcomes initiatives that strengthen dialogue among religious communities as an essential contribution to international peace and mutual understanding.

On 4 July, the historic Kapitan Keling Mosque in George Town, Penang, hosted a meaningful meeting dedicated to interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Representing the WOS-IPSP, Father Marco Baragli, Counselor for International Cooperation, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Anna Delli Muti, was warmly received by Mr. Hafiz Tahir, representing the President of the mosque, Mr. Haji Kamurudin Bin Abdullah.

The meeting was marked by an atmosphere of friendship, mutual respect, and sincere openness. During the visit, participants reflected on the importance of prayer as a path toward peace and discussed the shared ethical values found in the Qur'an and the Bible. The dialogue also explored the understanding of God's attributes in both religious traditions, emphasizing the importance of respect while acknowledging theological differences.

At the same time, members of the local community engaged in conversations with Mrs. Anna Delli Muti, creating an opportunity for cultural exchange and strengthening relationships based on mutual trust and understanding.

Malaysia represents a significant example of religious and cultural diversity. In a society where different faiths and ethnic communities coexist, initiatives such as this demonstrate that dialogue, respect, and cooperation remain indispensable instruments for promoting social harmony and preventing polarization.

Following the meeting, Father Marco Baragli contacted Amb. Alfredo Maiolese, Secretary General of the WOS-IPSP and President of the European Muslims League, to share the positive outcome of the visit and discuss future opportunities for strengthening cooperation between religious communities through cultural and diplomatic initiatives.

The WOS-IPSP reaffirms its commitment to supporting dialogue among civilizations and religions as an essential element of preventive diplomacy, conflict prevention, and sustainable peace. Encounters such as the one held in George Town demonstrate that mutual respect and sincere dialogue continue to build bridges where others see divisions.

Statement by Amb. Alfredo Maiolese, Secretary General of the WOS-IPSP

"Every sincere encounter between believers who choose dialogue over prejudice represents an investment in peace. Respecting one another's identity while working together for the common good is one of the strongest foundations for international cooperation. The experience in George Town reminds us that diplomacy also grows through personal relationships, mutual listening, and the shared commitment to human dignity."