Rome:Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, engaged in a meeting with Raffaella Giuliani, Secretary of the Pontifical Commission for Sacred Archaeology, on September 29.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Raffaella Giuliani expressed her pleasure in welcoming the Azerbaijani delegation. She discussed the book 'Pontes Culturae' ('Bridge of Cultures'), which symbolizes the partnership established by Azerbaijan's First Vice-President and President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mehriban Aliyeva, and Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi. Giuliani expressed hope for the continued development of relations and highlighted Mehriban Aliyeva's consistent attention to restoration work.

The meeting explored further restoration opportunities for the catacombs and new projects. Plans include involving more students and specialists in these efforts, emphasizing the importance of professional experts working in various Azerbaijani churches.

The contributions of Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim country, to the restoration of Christian heritage were highly praised. The collaboration, particularly in restoring the catacombs, was noted as an important message of tolerance, peace, and intercultural dialogue to the world.