Azerbaijan makes a significant contribution to strengthening Islamic solidarity, Elnara Akimova, a member of the Culture Committee of the Milli Majlis, told APA.
The MP said that Azerbaijan considers the protection of Islamic heritage a moral responsibility: “President Ilham Aliyev's meeting with Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), on October 27 is important for the development of Azerbaijan's relations with the Islamic world and humanitarian cooperation. Azerbaijan has historically been an integral part of the Islamic world, and our country's culture and national identity are closely linked to the rich heritage of Islamic civilization. During the period of independence, Azerbaijan has demonstrated this connection through concrete initiatives aimed at international cooperation, the protection of cultural heritage, and the promotion of interreligious dialogue. President Ilham Aliyev's emphasis during the meeting that Azerbaijan will continue its efforts to strengthen Islamic solidarity demonstrates the consistency of our country's policy in this area. The ICESCO Director-General's high appreciation of Azerbaijan's support for the development of education in Muslim countries, particularly the humanitarian initiatives of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and its Vice-President Leyla Aliyeva, also draws greater attention to the tangible results of this cooperation.”
Relations with the Islamic world are of strategic importance
Elnara Akimova noted that Azerbaijan attaches special importance to developing relations with Muslim countries and expanding cooperation within Islamic organizations: “Our country seeks to strengthen Islamic solidarity not only on the basis of shared religious and moral values, but also through joint activities in education, science, culture, and humanitarian fields. The World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, held at the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, is an important example of Azerbaijan's efforts to establish a platform for dialogue and mutual understanding at the international level. The ICESCO Director-General's high appreciation of the successful organization of the 7th Forum and his emphasis on the relevance of the President's views regarding the cessation of conflicts and the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of states indicate international interest in Azerbaijan's initiatives in this direction. Azerbaijan's hosting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Summit next year and its assumption of the organization's chairmanship will further expand our country's opportunities to deepen cooperation among Muslim states.”
Humanitarian mission of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation
The MP stated that the activities of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation occupy a special place in strengthening Islamic solidarity: “Projects implemented at the initiative of the Foundation's President, Azerbaijan's First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, and with the support of the Foundation's Vice-President Leyla Aliyeva serve to expand educational opportunities, provide assistance to people in need, and protect cultural heritage. Projects implemented in Muslim countries in the fields of education and humanitarian assistance within the framework of cooperation with ICESCO demonstrate the international scope of these activities. Such initiatives not only strengthen friendly relations between countries but also contribute to addressing common challenges.”
Protection of Islamic cultural heritage is a priority
Elnara Akimova emphasized that Azerbaijan pays special attention to protecting Islamic heritage both domestically and internationally: “The restoration of destroyed mosques and the reconstruction of historical monuments in the liberated territories are important manifestations of our people's commitment to preserving their religious and cultural heritage. The work carried out by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation to restore and protect historical and religious monuments in foreign countries also reflects an approach to Islamic culture as a universal value. These activities serve to pass religious and cultural heritage on to future generations and strengthen mutual respect among peoples. Azerbaijan's commitment to the principles of secular statehood and its preservation of the moral values of Islam complement each other. Our country's experience shows that it is possible to preserve national identity and religious and cultural heritage while simultaneously promoting modern development and international cooperation. Further expansion of cooperation with ICESCO is important for ensuring the continuation of Azerbaijan's contributions to Islamic solidarity and intercultural dialogue.”
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