Members of Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist and Hindu communities from 32 countries came together in Baku, Azerbaijan on April 26 and 27 for the World Summit of Religious Leaders.
The two-day interfaith dialog event concluded with the signing of a declaration that called for religions to serve as exemplary leaders of harmony in society.
A highlight of the meeting was the attendance of His Holiness Catholicos Karekin II, leader of Armenia's Apostolic Church. With his visit to Azerbaijan representing the first visit by a high-ranking Armenian cleric since 1988, the spiritual leader was welcomed by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, and the two prayed together in Baku church along with other delegates.
His Holiness also met with Azerbaijan's head Shi'ite Muslim cleric, Sheikh-ul-Islam Haji Allahshukur Pashazade and Russian Orthodox Church leader, His Holiness Patriarch Kirill II, with all agreeing to work together for peace while encouraging government leaders and mediators to seek diplomatic resolution.
Our heartfelt thankfulness, Your Holinesses Karekin II, Patriarch Kirill II and Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade for your inspirational meeting.
With Heaven’s grace, may the sincerity of your endeavors spread as lasting peace and unity to all throughout the region.
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