On November 4th President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received a delegation from Vatican headed by President of the Pontifical Council for Culture Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi.
The Head of State expressed confidence Gianfranco Ravasi`s visit would be a success and contribute to developing Azerbaijan-Vatican relations. President Ilham Aliyev praised the bilateral relations, stressing the importance of joint projects. The President touched upon the organization of Azerbaijan-related exhibitions in Vatican museums, saying the bilateral cooperation was developing in a new format.
President Ilham Aliyev presented Gianfranco Ravasi with Dostlug (Friendship) Order, saying he is awarded with one of the highest Orders of Azerbaijan for his contribution to developing cultural relations between Azerbaijan and Vatican.
Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi thanked the Azerbaijani President for conferring Dostlug Order upon him, describing it as recognition of the importance of the developing Azerbaijan-Vatican relations.
Gianfranco Ravasi congratulated the Head of State on his election as President. The Cardinal said President Ilham Aliyev was honored with Medalla Sede Vacante medal, one of the highest awards in Vatican. On behalf of the Holy See, the Cardnal presented the medal to President Ilham Aliyev.
Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi lauded the role of Azerbaijani first lady, president of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva in strengthening Azerbaijan-Vatican relations.
He expressed confidence relations between Azerbaijan and Vatican would further develop.