US envoy: Role of religious leaders is important in achieving peace between Azerbaijan, Armenia

The role of religious leaders is important in achieving peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Mark Libby, the newly appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the US to Azerbaijan, said, at the meeting with Sheikh Ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, the Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office (CMB). Report informs.

The ambassador noted that Sheikh Ul-Islam, a religious leader, has an exceptional role in the existence of friendly relations between religious denominations in the country, as well as in the process of inter-religious dialogue.

Sheikhulislam Pashazade regretfully noted that he participated in peace negotiations with the Armenian Church for many decades, but after Azerbaijan liberated its territories recognized by the international community according to the UN resolutions, the Armenian Church only shows a revanchist position, while peace in the region and peaceful coexistence between peoples reject his idea and calls out hatred.

Meanwhile, Sheikhulislam Pashazade called on the American ambassador to pay attention to the consequences of Armenian vandalism when visiting our liberated lands. He said that Armenia, which caused these destructions, destroyed mosques and even churches, is spreading slander about Azerbaijan.

Sheikhulislam also pointed out that it is natural to expect a big country like the US to be with the truth about such issues.

The US ambassador mentioned that he believes that achieving peace as the best guarantor of stability and sovereignty in the region, as the foundation of progress and prosperity, meets the interests of all.

During the meeting, the Chairman of the CMB also mentioned the VI World Intercultural Dialogue Forum and COP29 events, which will be hosted by Azerbaijan this year, and informed about the panel and summit meetings where world religious leaders will meet within the framework of both global events.