As part of his visit to Azerbaijan, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia met with Sheikh-ul-Islam Haji Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board, on May 4.
AZERTAC reports that the development and prospects of mutual relations were discussed during the meeting.
Sheikh-ul-Islam Haji Allahshukur Pashazade stated that the foundation of friendly relations between the religious confessions of Azerbaijan and Russia was established during the time of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and is of a sincere nature. Today, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev does not withhold his support for the further development of friendly relations between Orthodox Christians and Muslims. The friendly relations between President Ilham Aliyev and President Vladimir Putin ensure the religious and cultural rapprochement of peoples and the development of relations and ties.
The Sheikh-ul-Islam noted with regret that today, instead of calling the people to peace, religious figures in Armenia live with a sense of revenge. Azerbaijani lands have been liberated, and Armenian religious figures cannot come to terms with this. During the occupation, along with Azerbaijan's mosques and cultural monuments, cultural monuments belonging to the Orthodox were also destroyed. Today, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, led by Mehriban Aliyeva, is restoring churches and historical-cultural monuments belonging to both Muslims and Christians.
It was noted that Patriarch Kirill has played a major role in establishing friendly relations between the two religious confessions. The creation of peace and tranquility between peoples and religions lies at the basis of his activities. Therefore, Sheikh-ul-Islam Haji Allahshukur Pashazade expressed his gratitude to Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia.
Patriarch Kirill pointed out that historically there have been friendly relations between Muslims and Orthodox Christians in Russia. This friendship continues now as well. Many Muslims in Russia have become known and gained prestige by acting as prominent state and military figures.
Today, Russian President Vladimir Putin views Azerbaijan with a special relationship. President Ilham Aliyev, who leads Azerbaijan, treats all religious confessions, including the Orthodox, with attention and care.
It was noted that Orthodox Christians have always been treated with respect in Azerbaijan, and the Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board, Allahshukur Pashazade, has a special role in this. Therefore, Patriarch Kirill expressed his gratitude to the Sheikh-ul-Islam.
It was emphasized that, unlike political figures, the activity of religious figures consists of achieving mutual respect and esteem among those who profess different religions.