Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, and members of the judging committee of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, including former President of the European Council Charles Michel and former Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the delegation expressed pleasure at visiting Azerbaijan and gratitude to President Aliyev for the reception. They informed the President that he would be awarded the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity for his efforts to achieve peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The award ceremony will take place on February 4 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and President Aliyev was invited as a guest of honor.
The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity was established by Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and the late Pope Francis, promoting the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. President Aliyev's selection underscores appreciation from global leaders for his peace efforts, with the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia highlighted as a model for conflict resolution worldwide.
Mohamed Abdelsalam praised President Aliyev's work towards a peace agreement, describing it as an inspiring example for conflict zones globally. Charles Michel emphasized the global impact of the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, expressing support for President Aliyev's leadership and efforts.
Moussa Faki Mahamat congratulated President Aliyev, acknowledging his vision and leadership in fostering peace and stability. President Aliyev expressed gratitude for the recognition of Azerbaijan's peace efforts and accepted the invitation to the award ceremony.
President Aliyev discussed the importance of peace for regional stability, noting Azerbaijan's strong political will to achieve lasting peace despite past suffering. He highlighted significant agreements reached during the Washington meeting in August 2025, appreciating U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts.
President Aliyev remarked on the positive impact of peace on Azerbaijan, expressing hope that the agreement with Armenia would serve as a message of peace to other conflict regions. He acknowledged the respect for Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan globally and expressed honor in receiving the award, noting his close relations with UAE leadership.
The meeting concluded with discussions on mutual interests, reflecting the ongoing commitment to peace and collaboration.