Rome-hosted Iftar table brings together representatives of three monotheistic faiths VIDEO
Rome, March 10, AZERTAC
An iftar dinner bringing together representatives of the three monotheistic religions was held in Rome on March 9 at the initiative of the Caucasus Muslims Office and the Azerbaijani Embassy to the Holy See.
The event was attended by Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade, religious leaders from Azerbaijan, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Italy and the Holy See, as well as representatives of state institutions, religious communities, and the public.
Secretary of State of the Holy See Pietro Parolin attended the event on behalf of Pope Leo XIV.
The Moroccan Embassy to the Holy See and the Media International Communication Club (MICC) also supported the organization of the event, which aimed to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between communities and institutions.
The iftar coincided with sacred dates of the three monotheistic religions—the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, Christianity’s Feast of the Annunciation, and the Jewish festival of Purim—highlighting the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts and humanitarian crises.
The ceremony began with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran.
Nizar Ramadan, Secretary General of the International Media Communication Club, said the main objective of the initiative is to promote genuine integration of different communities while respecting national legislation and ensuring their full rights.
Morocco’s Ambassador to the Holy See, Rajae Naji Mekkaoui, noted that by organizing the event together, Morocco and Azerbaijan reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and encouraged joint efforts toward building a more fraternal world.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin conveyed the greetings of Pope Leo XIV to the participants. He noted that such initiatives demonstrate that diplomacy takes place not only at negotiating tables but also around tables of hospitality.
“Sharing a meal together creates mutual understanding, strengthens trust, and affirms our common dignity. Friendship among peoples is reinforced not only through agreements and partnerships but also through these simple yet meaningful gestures of communication,” Parolin said.
Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to the Holy See Ilgar Mukhtarov highlighted the symbolic significance of the iftar coinciding with holy days of the three monotheistic religions. He noted that Azerbaijan has historically been a country where people of different faiths and nationalities have lived together in peace and harmony.
Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Office Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade described the iftar dinner as a symbol of Azerbaijan’s cooperation with the Holy See in promoting interfaith dialogue and a manifestation of the culture of peace and coexistence.
He also noted that Azerbaijan has restored its internationally recognized territorial integrity and sovereignty in accordance with the resolutions of the UN Security Council, adding that the country is currently rebuilding and restoring religious and cultural monuments damaged during the period of occupation, including mosques and temples belonging to different faiths.
According to Pashazade, relations between the Holy See and Azerbaijan continue to develop successfully, accompanied by regular high-level reciprocal visits. He also highlighted the contributions of First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, through the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, to the restoration of historic religious monuments in the Vatican.
At the conclusion of the event, commemorative gifts were presented and several individuals were honored for their contributions to interfaith dialogue.
Elvin Movsum
Special Correspondent
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