Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Discusses Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation with Holy See’s Archbishop

Azerbaijan's Foreign Minister Discusses Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation with Holy See's Archbishop

Baku, The Gulf Observer: Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister, Jeyhun Bayramov, met with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, for discussions on enhancing bilateral ties and regional security issues. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, began with one-on-one talks, followed by an expanded session with the participation of delegations from both countries.

The talks centered on the prospects for strengthening existing bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Holy See. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the continued reciprocal visits and ongoing contact, which have contributed significantly to cooperation in political, cultural, and humanitarian areas. The opening of Azerbaijan’s embassy in the Vatican was highlighted as a key milestone in fostering stronger bilateral relations.

The two sides recalled the visits of Pope John Paul II to Azerbaijan in 2002 and Pope Francis in 2016, expressing confidence that such reciprocal visits would continue in the future.

During the meeting, the parties also commended the efforts of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, led by Azerbaijan’s First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, in the restoration of cultural monuments of global significance, including those within the Holy See. FM Bayramov noted that these initiatives reflect Azerbaijan’s commitment to promoting multiculturalism and enhancing cooperation with the Holy See in this regard.

Minister Bayramov also briefed Archbishop Gallagher on the outcomes of COP29, highlighting the successful Baku Global Summit of World Religious Leaders and other significant events held during the conference.

The meeting further covered the current regional situation, particularly the post-conflict realities and the ongoing normalization and peace processes between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Minister Bayramov emphasized that while substantial progress has been made, continued territorial claims in Armenia’s constitution and the rapid militarization of Armenia pose ongoing threats to regional peace and security.

Archbishop Gallagher expressed his gratitude for Azerbaijan’s support in the construction of a Catholic Church dedicated to Pope John Paul II, noting the importance of this gesture in strengthening ties between the two sides.

The discussions concluded with an exchange of views on other matters of mutual interest.