President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva met with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia on May 5.President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva welcomed Patriarch Kirill.Greeting Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.

As far as the relations between our peoples are concerned, everything is stable in this regard. We traditionally demonstrate great sympathy, respect, and mutual support for each other, and I am glad that strong ties between our peoples form such a foundation for interstate relations. Of course, the Orthodox community in Azerbaijan is an important factor in interstate relations. I am sure that, like all of us, they will be very pleased with your visit.

It is always a pleasure for us to meet and communicate with you. I sincerely welcome you to Azerbaijan again. Azerbaijan is not a strange country to you. We know that you have been a great friend of the Azerbaijani people for many years. You have always shown us respect in word and indeed, and I am sure that this positive dynamic will be preserved in the future.

Following the meeting, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia presented the Saint Princess Olga Order, First Degree, of the Russian Orthodox Church to Mehriban Aliyeva, First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

The First Lady of Azerbaijan was awarded the order by decree of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia in recognition of her contributions to the preservation of traditional values in society and the promotion of intercultural and interfaith dialogue.First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva expressed her appreciation for the attention shown. Finally, gifts were exchanged between the parties.

Madina Mammadova\\EDnews