Asim Mollazade, chairman of the Democratic Reforms Party (DRP) of Azerbaijan, attended a photo exhibition held in Bratislava by the European Azerbaijanis’ Society (TEAS) with the help of the Slovakian Ministry of Culture.
The exhibition, called “Azerbaijan in the spotlight”, was also attended by MPs, foreign diplomats, public figures and journalists, the DRP press service said.
Speaking at the exhibition, Mollazade said Azerbaijan was the first Muslim and Turkic nation to adopt European values. He also spoke about Azerbaijani culture and its traditions of tolerance.
“Looking at these photos, we should bear in mind that Azerbaijan was the first country in the East to have integrated into European culture,” he said. The East’s first opera, ballet and jazz orchestra were born in Azerbaijan. This country is a vivid example of multiculturalism.”
Mollazade went on to say that many Jewish people found refuge in Azerbaijan during difficult days in Europe. Azerbaijanis have always been open to exchanges of culture and inter-cultural dialogue.
“In my country, Jews, Muslims, Protestants, Catholics and Orthodox Christians all live in peace,” he said.
Mollazade added that a Slovakia center will soon open at Baku Slavic University. Young Azerbaijanis will be able to visit Slovakia to learn about this country and its history. Slovak students will too be able to study at Azerbaijan’s Diplomatic Academy.
ANN.Az
