Ilham Aliyev expressed condolences to Irakli Kobakhidze

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev expressed condolences to Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze.

As reported by AZERTAC, the message states:

"Dear Mr. Prime Minister,

We received with deep sorrow the news of the passing of the outstanding religious figure of our time, Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, His Holiness Ilia II.

His Holiness Ilia II devoted his entire life and work to noble ideals in the name of his people and humanity. Through his activities aimed at establishing peace, tranquility in the Caucasus, solidarity among people, interreligious understanding and dialogue, His Holiness Ilia II won the hearts of millions of people, regardless of their national and religious affiliation, and earned deep respect and admiration.

His Holiness Ilia II made great contributions to the development and strengthening of the traditional relations of friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Sharing the grief over this grave loss, I personally and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan express deep condolences to you, to the entire people of Georgia, and to the Georgian Orthodox Church."