Vatican city: The official opening of the administrative office of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Holy See was held on October 17, with First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva and Secretary of State of the Vatican Cardinal Pietro Parolin in attendance. Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Holy See Ilgar Mukhtarov provided insight into the embassy’s new administrative office, highlighting its prime location on Via Conciliazione, the main thoroughfare leading to St. Peter’s Basilica and near the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican. This area also hosts several other embassies and official Vatican institutions.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the relationship between Azerbaijan and the Holy See has been experiencing significant growth, underscored by mutual interests, respect, and cooperation. This relationship is broadening, with both sides engaging in discussions on bilateral ties and international issues. During the event, Mehriban Aliyeva and Cardinal Pietro Parolin shared a tea and exchanged views on various bilateral and international subjects.

The establishment of Azerbaijan’s diplomatic mission in such a crucial spiritual and ideological center underscores the importance of disseminating Azerbaijan’s realities to the global community. The embassy’s activities are seen as vital in this regard.

The embassy’s foundation was formally established when President Ilham Aliyev signed a law in 2021, and Ilgar Mukhtarov’s appointment as the first resident ambassador to the Holy See in 2022 marked a significant step in strengthening these diplomatic relations.