A festive event celebrating World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year, has been held in Italy.

Co-organized by the embassies of Azerbaijan to Italy and to the Holy See, the event was attended by the Azerbaijani compatriots residing, studying and working in Italy.

Addressing the event, Azerbaijan`s ambassador to the Holy See Ilgar Mukhtarov congratulated the compatriots on the World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year and gave insight into the establishment history of the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis founded by the Great Leader Heydar Aliyev.

Shedding light into the relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See, the ambassador emphasized the exceptional role of the National Leader in establishing these relations. According to him, the comprehensive policy of the Great Leader, Azerbaijan has always been recognized by the international community as a multicultural country where representatives of all religions and nationalities live freely. That is why during their visits Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis called Azerbaijan “a center of tolerance”.

Ambassador Mukhtarov also emphasized the flourishing relations between Azerbaijan and the Holy See, mentioning restoration projects of religious and cultural monuments in Vatican funded by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. He underscored that as a result of this successful activity, Azerbaijan's First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva was awarded with the highest Papal award “the Grand Cross” of the Order of Pius IX.

Azerbaijani Ambassador to Italy Rashad Aslanov emphasized the significance of World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day for each Azerbaijani living abroad. He highlighted the enthusiasm with which people in Azerbaijan celebrate this day, especially after the restoration of sovereignty over all its territories. Ambassador Aslanov praised the efforts and unparalleled services of the National Leader in protecting the statehood and independence of Azerbaijan.

Ambassador Aslanov also discussed the dynamic development of Azerbaijan-Italy relations, moving toward the level of strategic partnership. He emphasized the importance of reciprocal visits between the heads of both countries and the potential for partnership in various domains.

The event concluded with a concert program.