The President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, held a meeting with the President of the Conference of European Rabbis, Pinchas Goldschmidt, in Munich. During the meeting, the President highlighted the long-standing history of the Jewish community residing in Azerbaijan, emphasizing their freedom to practice their faith and the supportive environment of brotherhood and mutual understanding. The President also mentioned that the Azerbaijani government had ensured the proper functioning of synagogues in the country.
President Ilham Aliyev mentioned the Jewish community residing in Azerbaijan's Guba district and emphasized that the Azerbaijani government has consistently supported the community and implemented measures to enhance their quality of life. The President underscored that this approach has been a way of life for Azerbaijanis for millennia.
Pinchas Goldschmidt, the President of the Conference, recalled with delight his 1997 visit to Azerbaijan and meeting with the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. He reflected that the meeting had left a lasting impression on him. Goldschmidt further acknowledged that the Jewish community in Azerbaijan has a strong foundation and expressed gratitude to the President for the favorable conditions and attention extended to the community.
Pinchas Goldschmidt praised the conditions created for the Jewish community in Azerbaijan, stating that they serve as an example for other countries. He personally visited the Guba district and was impressed by the 13 synagogues. Goldschmidt also acknowledged the comprehensive development of relations between Azerbaijan and Israel and highlighted the contributions made by Jewish communities living in different countries.
President Ilham Aliyev echoed Goldschmidt's sentiments on the successful partnership and friendship between Azerbaijan and Israel in various areas. The head of state expressed confidence that the opening of Azerbaijan's embassy in Israel would further enhance these relations. The meeting also touched upon the intention of representatives of the European Jewish community to visit Azerbaijan.