Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has received a letter of condolence from the Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ali Asadov, on the passing of Catholicos Patriarch Ilia II.

The Azerbaijani Prime Minister underlines Patriarch Ilia II’s significant contribution to the development of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, and extends his condolences to the Government of Georgia, the Georgian people, and the Orthodox Church.

The letter reads:

“It was with profound sorrow that I received news of the passing of the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia, Ilia II, one of the most influential religious figures of our age.

His Holiness Ilia II devoted his life to the faithful service of his own people and of universal human values. Through his tireless promotion of peace, unity, and interfaith dialogue in the Caucasus region, he earned the deep reverence and love of millions of people, regardless of nationality or religious affiliation.

His Holiness Ilia II made a significant contribution to the deepening of the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia.
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, I extend my profound condolences on this grievous loss to the Government of Georgia, to all Georgians, and to the Georgian Orthodox Church.”