This morning in the Vatican Apostolic Palace the Holy Father Francis received in audience the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions at the Secretariat of State, both sides expressed satisfaction over the development of the existing bilateral relations. In particular, attention was given to collaboration in the cultural sphere and to appreciation for the activities of the Catholic Church in the country.

Discussions then focused on some regional and international themes, with special reference to the importance of intercultural and interreligious dialogue that supports peaceful coexistence among the various religious and ethnic groups.