“The Christian community holds a distinctive place in modern Azerbaijani society. Our Christian citizens, who have settled in Azerbaijan and lived here as a family for hundreds of years, play a significant role in the public, political, social, and cultural life of our homeland, contributing greatly to the prosperity of our beloved country,” President Ilham Aliyev said in his letter to Pope Francis on the occasion of Christmas, according to Report.
According to the head of state, ancient Christian heritage, shrines, churches, and other places of worship across Azerbaijan are protected equally alongside mosques and synagogues by the Azerbaijani state. In the meantime, Azerbaijan plays an active role in preserving Christian monuments that are considered gems of world cultural heritage, thus promoting intercultural dialogue.
“We are pleased with the established relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See. Our bilateral ties are marked by numerous reciprocal visits, constant contacts, and significant milestones. It is with satisfaction that I note the upcoming construction of a second Catholic church in our country, to be built in honor of Pope John Paul II. This project demonstrates great attention and care toward our country’s Catholic community and symbolizes the high level of relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See,” noted the Azerbaijani leader.