Baku: The leaders of religious confessions in Azerbaijan have issued a statement addressing the '2026 Annual Report' by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which assesses the religious situation in Azerbaijan in 2025.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the statement expressed serious concern and regret over the claims made in the USCIRF report. The religious leaders categorically rejected these claims, describing them as baseless allegations against Azerbaijan that suggest violations of religious freedom and pressure on religious communities. They argue that these allegations do not reflect the realities on the ground and overlook Azerbaijan's efforts to promote religious tolerance both domestically and globally.

The statement also highlighted the disappointment with USCIRF's report, especially in light of the strengthened bilateral relations following President Donald Trump's return to office, and the advancement of the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia reached in Washington D.C. last year. The leaders emphasized Azerbaijan's role as a founding member state of the Board of Peace, established under the U.S. President's leadership, as a testament to its commitment to fostering interreligious dialogue globally.

Azerbaijan's constitution prohibits discrimination and guarantees equal rights regardless of religion or belief. The country prides itself on a longstanding tradition of diversity and multiculturalism, where mosques, churches, and synagogues coexist peacefully. The statement noted ongoing efforts in preserving and restoring religious sites, including mosques, churches, and synagogues, which were reportedly overlooked in the USCIRF report.

The leaders expressed regret over the report's misrepresentation of Azerbaijan's restoration efforts in the liberated Garabagh and East Zangezur regions, which aim to preserve cultural and religious heritage. Azerbaijan's approach to interfaith dialogue is reportedly recognized globally, with leaders like Pope Francis and Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, praising its model of religious tolerance.

Azerbaijan's contribution to preserving religious sites extends internationally, with initiatives like the restoration of Vatican City's cultural heritage. The country also hosts the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue and the Global Summit of Religious Leaders, underscoring its role in promoting intercultural dialogue.

In conclusion, the religious leaders urged USCIRF to reconsider its approach towards Azerbaijan by reflecting objectively on the situation based on facts and realities. They called for the removal of Azerbaijan from the Special Watch List, deeming it unwarranted and unsubstantiated.