President Ilham Aliyev has sent a letter of condolence to the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, following the passing of the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, the message expressed deep sorrow over the death of the prominent religious figure. "We were deeply saddened by the news of the passing of His Holiness Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia and an outstanding religious leader of our time," the letter stated. President Ilham Aliyev emphasized that Ilia II dedicated his life to noble ideals for the benefit of his people and humanity, earning the respect of millions regardless of their national or religious affiliation through his efforts to establish peace, solidarity, and interreligious dialogue in the Caucasus.
The President further noted the significant contributions of His Holiness to the development and strengthening of traditional friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia. "I share the grief of this heavy loss and, on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, offer my deepest condolences to you, the entire people of Georgia, and the Georgian Orthodox Church," the head of state added. Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II passed away on March 17 at the age of 93 while receiving medical treatment in a hospital.
The passing of Ilia II marks the end of an era for the Georgian Orthodox Church, which he led since 1977. During his tenure, he oversaw a significant spiritual revival in Georgia and was widely regarded as one of the most influential and trusted public figures in the country. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to maintaining regional stability and fostering strong ties with neighboring Azerbaijan, reflecting the strategic partnership and historical bonds between the two nations.
