Azerbaijan’s Interfaith Dialogue Initiative in Spotlight of 29th Eurasian Economic Summit

Istanbul: On May 13, Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office (CMO), met with Cole Durham, President of the G20 Interfaith Dialogue Forum, and Elder Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon, along with Nicole Stirling, Vice President of the Stirling Foundation, during the 29th Eurasian Economic Summit held in Istanbul.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the meeting featured an extensive discussion on the establishment of a Multi-Faith Advisory Council under the G20 Interfaith Forum Association. The leaders signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding, with the Caucasus Muslims Office acting as a founding body in the Council. This move is seen as a significant step in Azerbaijan's contribution to interfaith dialogue, marking a new stage in the process.

Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade emphasized the importance of the memorandum, stating, "Today we are signing an important document. In addition to cooperating with the G20 Interfaith Forum Association, we will also act as the founder of the Advisory Council." Cole Durham expressed confidence that this new level of cooperation would contribute to interfaith dialogue and the establishment of global peace, highlighting Azerbaijan's contributions.

The parties also discussed preparations for the G20 Interfaith Forum scheduled to be held in the U.S. in October. Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade stressed the significance of the forum, noting the support of the Caucasus Muslims Office. The meeting also addressed global and regional issues of mutual interest.