Vatican city: The Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board (CMB), Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, had a meeting with Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, during his visit to the Vatican. This interaction took place following the general audience in St. Peter’s Square.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade conveyed greetings from Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva to the Pope. He highlighted the significance of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation’s recent activities in the Vatican and provided information about the construction of the second Catholic Church in Azerbaijan.

The Chairman expressed that it would be an honor to welcome Pope Leo XIV to Azerbaijan. He noted that a visit from the Pope would allow him to witness the interfaith harmony, the robust state-religion relations, and the multicultural environment present in Azerbaijan.

Pope Leo XIV responded by expressing his eagerness to visit Azerbaijan and mentioned that he would plan the visit according to his work schedule.