Azerbaijan Funds Restoration of Holy See's Cultural Heritage

Azerbaijan continues to strengthen its position in the field of international cultural diplomacy, this time by strengthening relations with the Vatican. "Euronews" has once again addressed the topic. With the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, restoration work has been carried out on objects of historical and cultural importance located on the territory of the Holy See. This initiative is seen as a step aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two countries and promoting intercultural dialogue.

The restoration program has included several significant monuments that are an integral part of the Catholic world and world culture. Among them are the Catacombs of St. Sebastian, which are one of the most important testimonies of the early period of Christianity, as well as a section of the bell tower of St. Peter's Basilica, the "Sistine Hall." Restoration work has also been carried out in the Vatican Library, which houses thousands of priceless manuscripts and historical documents.

The First Vice-President of Azerbaijan and President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mehriban Aliyeva, has emphasized that this initiative not only contributes to the preservation of the world's cultural heritage but also serves as a testament to Azerbaijan's positioning as a center of tolerance and multiculturalism. According to her, although Azerbaijan is an Islamic country, it treats the values of other religions and cultures with great respect, a vivid example of which is the care shown for the holy places of the Catholic world.

Representatives of the Holy See have highly appreciated the contribution of the government of Azerbaijan and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, noting that such cooperation best expresses the importance of interreligious and intercultural dialogue in the modern world. This step is seen as a manifestation of mutual respect and goodwill, which can serve as an example for other countries. Thus, Azerbaijan, by investing in the preservation of cultural values of global importance, not only strengthens its international prestige but also emphasizes its commitment to the preservation and promotion of cultural diversity.