Azerbaijani and Georgian theological educational institutions discuss cooperation

On June 7, representatives from the State Committee on Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan Institute of Theology and other relevant government agencies paid a visit to the Tbilisi Theological Academy.

The parties discussed cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia in all areas, particularly between religious organizations, religious education, and state-religion relations.

Rector Giorgi Zviadadze spoke about Azerbaijan-Georgia relations, noting that our relations have expanded and strengthened as a result of friendly relations between the heads of state and government, as well as religious leaders from both countries.

He noted that, as a result of the efforts of Azerbaijani national leader, Heydar Aliyev, and former President of Georgia, Eduard Shevardnadze, our ancient relations have reached a new level.

Recalling his visit to Baku, Zviadadze stressed that Azerbaijan is an example of tolerance. He said that the construction of the Synagogue by President Ilham Aliyev at his own expense is a vivid example of this.
Sahib Nagiyev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, provided detailed information about state-religion relations, religious education, and the tolerant environment in our country. He emphasized that all of our citizens, regardless of religion or language, took part in the heroic participation of Azerbaijan in the 44-day Patriotic War. He described it as a clear example of tolerance. He stated that Armenian vandals destroyed mosques and Christian religious monuments in the occupied territories. The Azerbaijani government is taking steps to restore all of them.

Agil Shirinov, Rector of Azerbaijan Institute of Theology, then informed the audience about the completely free and independent functioning of religious denominations in our country as well as the allocation of financial assistance by the state to all of them.

The rector also discussed the institute activities, international relations, and the prospects for educational cooperation between the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology and the Tbilisi Theological Academy.