Ministerial meetings in Azerbaijan

On 13 September, Rabbi Schneier and FFEU Executive Director Chris Sacarabany were hosted by H.E. Minister Anar Karimov, Minister of Culture for the Republic of Azerbaijan. They had a positive and fruitful conversation about the Peace4Culture Global Call, as well as the Baku Forum – interreligious platforms to which Rabbi Schneier has been honored to address on several occasions.

On 12 September, Rabbi Schneier and Chris Sacarabany were received by H.E. Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy for the Republic of Azerbaijan. During their meeting, they exchanged views on issues of common concern, including the rich cultural heritage and tolerance values of tolerance and coexistence in Azerbaijan. The Rabbi thanked the Minister for the government and the Azeri people’s warm hearts shown toward the flourishing Jewish community that has been a part of Azerbaijan for millennia.

Later that day, they had a productive visit with H.E. Mubariz Gurbanli, Chairman of the State Committee on Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan at which they discussed upcoming interfaith initiatives.

The Association is translating into Azeri Rabbi Schneier’s book Sons of Abraham: A Candid Conversation about the Issues That Divide and Unite Jews and Muslims. It will be published in Azerbaijan in Spring 2023.

The book has been translated into multiple languages, including Arabic, French, Hebrew and Indonesian. “Access in many languages is a key component for promoting through the book and its curriculum mutual understanding, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence,” said Rabbi Schneier at the meeting.