On December 16, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See, who was on an official visit to Azerbaijan, visited the "House of Tolerance" in Icherisheher.
The chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board, Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, warmly welcomed the guest and provided information about the newly opened "House of Tolerance." His Eminence Sheikh-ul-Islam noted the high level of state-religion relations in Azerbaijan and spoke about the multicultural environment and harmony among cultures in our country. The chairman of the CMB stated that this is a unique place that reflects Azerbaijan's contributions to dialogue between religions and cultures, as well as the traditions, history, and present day of tolerance in our country.
The Vatican representative was introduced to a photo gallery showcasing the attention and care of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva toward various religious confessions in our country.
The guest was also given detailed information about religious attributes belonging to Muslim, Christian, and Jewish faiths, rare copies of the holy books of traditional religions, state awards given to religious leaders, and valuable gifts.
Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See, expressed his satisfaction with the visit to the "House of Tolerance" and wrote his heartfelt thoughts in the visitor's book.
The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Holy See, Ilgar Mukhtarov, participated in the meeting.