Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 14
By Elena Kosolapova – Trend:
Relations between Azerbaijan and Vatican are very positive, Ordinary of the Church of the Virgin Mary's Immaculate Conception (Roman Catholic Church) in Azerbaijan Vladimir Fekete said at a press conference in Baku Sept. 14.
He noted that the reconstruction activities of Azerbaijan in Vatican contributed to the development of these relations.
An opening of the catacombs of Saints Marcellinus and Peter restored with the initiative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation was held in Vatican in Feb. 23.
A bilateral agreement was signed between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Vatican on restoration of Roman catacombs in 2012.
The fact that the visit will take place in the year of multiculturalism says that Pope accepts and respects Azerbaijan as a tolerant country, Fekete said.
He expressed hope that the visit will give even greater impetus to the development of bilateral relations.
Pope Francis will visit Baku October 2. During his visit to Baku, Pope Francis will meet Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade, the chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office, as well as representatives of other religious communities, a spokesperson for the Roman Catholic Church in Baku Jamilya Mammadova said at a press conference in Baku Sept. 14.
Moreover, on his arrival in Baku at 10:30 (GMT + 4hours), Pope Francis will hold a Mass at the Roman Catholic Church in the city, which may be attended by anyone interested.
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