British visitors learn about Azerbaijan's model of multiculturalism

Alpha Bird Collins, a member of Hertsmere Borough Council in the United Kingdom, and Louise Collins, a representative of St. Michael and All Angels Church, have visited Azerbaijan.

The State Committee on Work with Diaspora reported this to Operativ Media.

It was noted that as part of the visit organized with the support of the Fund for Support to Azerbaijani Diaspora, the British guests attended the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue on "Dialogue for a Shared Future" held in Baku. They participated in the opening ceremony of the forum as well as various panel sessions, observing discussions on the development of intercultural and interfaith dialogue.

The guests also visited several places of worship in Baku, touring the Holy Myrrh-Bearers Cathedral, as well as the Archangel Michael and Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Orthodox churches.

The British visitors were briefed on Azerbaijan's historically established multicultural environment, the peaceful coexistence of various religious denominations, the protection of religious monuments, and measures taken to foster interfaith relations in the country. It was emphasized that Azerbaijan is a country where representatives of different religions and cultures live in mutual respect and understanding, and where values of multiculturalism play an important role in public life.

They also visited the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan and met with Deputy Chairman Elshad Aliyev. Aqshin Karimov, an Azerbaijani diaspora activist living in the United Kingdom, also attended the meeting.

Warmly welcoming the guests, the deputy chairman stated that under the leadership of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, preserving traditions of multiculturalism and religious tolerance, and promoting mutual respect and solidarity among representatives of different religions and cultures, is a key priority of state policy. He noted that the exemplary model established by Azerbaijan in this field is highly valued by the international community and plays an important role in the country's contributions to advancing intercultural dialogue.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of further developing humanitarian ties between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom, particularly cooperation in intercultural and interfaith dialogue.

The British guests expressed their satisfaction with the opportunity during their time in Azerbaijan to gain firsthand knowledge of the country's multiculturalism model, learn about the activities of various religious communities, and receive detailed information about traditions of tolerance.

The visit was significant in terms of strengthening humanitarian and cultural ties between Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom, promoting mutual understanding, and advancing the values of multiculturalism and religious tolerance on the international stage.