Azerbaijani Delegation Visits Georgian Patriarchate to Strengthen Religious and Diplomatic Ties

OCP News Service – 13/06/2024

Tbilisi -Georgia: On June 12, 2024, a high-level Azerbaijani delegation, led by the newly appointed Chairman of the State Committee of Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ramin Mamedov, and Mr. Faig Guliyev, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Georgia, visited the Patriarchate of Georgia. The visit also included other distinguished members of the Azerbaijani delegation.

The delegation was warmly received by Chorebishop Theodore (Chuadze), the Metropolitan of Akhaltsikhe and Tao-Klarjeti, representing the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. The meeting was also attended by representatives from the State Agency for Religious Affairs of Georgia, including Protopresbyter Giorgi Zviadadze, the rector of Tbilisi Theological Academy-Seminary, Deacon Petre (Khumarashvili) who works in historical Hereti, and other clergy members.

Metropolitan Theodore, who oversees the dioceses of Khornabuj and Hereti, extended his congratulations to Mr. Mamedov on his recent appointment and wished him success in his new role. He also acknowledged and appreciated the efforts of Mr. Mubariz Gurbanli, Mamedov’s predecessor, in fostering closer relations between the Georgian Orthodox Church and Azerbaijani authorities. Metropolitan Theodore expressed his hope for the continuation and strengthening of these ties, which he believes will enhance good-neighborly relations and help resolve important issues, including those concerning the Davit Gareji community.

Mr. Ramin Mamedov expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and emphasized his commitment to promoting friendship and closer ties between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Georgia. He highlighted the significance of such diplomatic and religious interactions in fostering regional peace and cooperation.

During the discussions, the parties touched upon the current situation in historical Hereti and the broader global context. They underscored the importance of peace and friendship among the peoples of the Caucasus region, recognizing these values as crucial for regional stability and harmony.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their dedication to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between their respective countries and religious communities.

Source:
OCP News Service