Six decades of Nostra Aetate: Azerbaijani top cleric joins Vatican celebration PHOTO

Chairman of the Caucasus Muslim Board (CMB) Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazada participated in the event “Walking Together in Hope,” a special ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of Nostra Aetate, the Second Vatican Council's Declaration on Interreligious Dialogue. 

The event, held at the Paul VI Hall in the Vatican, brought together religious leaders, diplomats, and interfaith advocates to reflect on the progress made in fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among religions, Caliber.Az reports per local media. 

The ceremony featured speeches from Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue of the Holy See, and Cardinal Kurt Koch, Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity. Pope Leo XIV also addressed the audience, emphasising the importance of building deeper relationships between the Catholic Church and followers of other faiths, particularly Islam.

In his remarks, the Pope thanked all those who have worked toward strengthening interreligious dialogue, pointing to the historic Document on Human Fraternity signed in 2019 by Pope Francis and Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed el-Tayeb. He also called on people worldwide to stand against violence and injustice, and to continue efforts in promoting peace and unity.

The event was attended by approximately two thousand people, including religious leaders from various faiths, diplomats, and other dignitaries.

The ongoing work of Nostra Aetate was acknowledged for its pivotal role in shaping the Catholic Church’s relations with non-Christian religions, setting the stage for broader collaboration and understanding across faiths.

By Sabina Mammadli