The Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office (CMO), Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade, has extended an official invitation to the head of the Holy See and the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, to visit Azerbaijan. The invitation was delivered during a significant diplomatic mission to the Vatican, where Allahshukur Pashazade was accompanied by leaders of various religious confessions active in Azerbaijan.
According to information provided by the CMO to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the proposed visit is slated for 2027. This year holds particular symbolic weight as it marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See. Furthermore, 2027 coincides with the 30th anniversary of the historic first meeting between National Leader Heydar Aliyev and Pope John Paul II, which laid the foundation for modern bilateral ties.
During the audience, Pope Leo XIV praised the unique model of interfaith dialogue in Azerbaijan, noting that the joint visit of different religious leaders is a testament to the possibility of coexistence in an atmosphere of peace and human fraternity. Allahshukur Pashazade emphasized that the decades-long cooperation between the Vatikan and the CMO serves as a global example of interreligious harmony. To further strengthen these ties, the Sheikhulislam proposed the establishment of a CMO representative office at the Vatican.
Addressing regional stability, the CMO chairman briefed the Pontiff on the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He expressed regret that while political leaders strive for a lasting settlement, the Armenian church maintains a revanchist position and refuses to support peace. Allahshukur Pashazade dismissed claims regarding the destruction of religious monuments as groundless, pointing out that an Armenian church remains preserved in the center of Baku. He noted that the Pope would be able to witness Azerbaijan's commitment to multiculturalism firsthand during his visit.
Azerbaijan has long been recognized as a bridge between Eastern and Western civilizations, hosting numerous international forums on intercultural dialogue. The country's constitution guarantees religious freedom, and the state provides support for the restoration of mosques, churches, and synagogues alike. This upcoming visit is expected to further solidify Azerbaijan's reputation as a global hub for religious tolerance and diplomatic cooperation.
