On the eve of Rosh Hashanah, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev sent a festive greeting to the country’s Jewish community, emphasizing its unique role in Azeri society and the nation’s long tradition of tolerance.
“I sincerely congratulate you on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah and extend my best wishes,” Aliyev wrote. “The Jewish community holds a special place in Azerbaijan, a country historically distinguished by traditions of tolerance and a culture of coexistence. For centuries, Jews, who today are an integral part of our society, have lived side by side with other peoples and faiths in conditions of peace, mutual respect and trust.”
The president noted that in today’s world Azerbaijan stands out as one of the few countries free of antisemitism and religious intolerance. “Preserving cultural diversity, fostering the language and traditions of ethnic minorities, and promoting multicultural values are among the core goals of our national policy,” he added.
Aliyev stressed that Jewish citizens play an active role in all areas of public and political life, making a significant contribution to national solidarity and to presenting Azerbaijan to the international community. “Rosh Hashanah is a symbol of renewal, spiritual purity, kindness and solidarity. On this festive day, I once again extend my greetings to each of you, wishing happiness to your families and abundance to your homes,” he concluded.
Cultural diversity 'among the core goals of our national policy'
The president’s greeting comes as Baku prepares to host the Conference of European Rabbis this November, a landmark event expected to draw some 500 rabbis and spiritual leaders from across the continent. The conference is attracting considerable attention not only for its religious and public significance but also against the backdrop of threats and criticism from Iran.
Iranian media outlets and clerics have portrayed the event as controversial, with some describing it as “an affront to Shi’ite tradition” and “an expression of excessive closeness to Israel.” Fars News Agency, affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, warned that the gathering could spark internal tension in Azerbaijan. Other commentators accused Baku of using ties with Israel as a political tool, and an imam from Iran’s Gilan Province labeled the move “problematic” for the country’s Shi’ite majority.
Nevertheless, the Azerbaijani leadership continues preparations as planned, sending a clear message of confidence and determination to ensure Jewish communal life in the country remains safe and secure. Security services, under Aliyev’s direct guidance, are implementing extensive measures to guarantee the conference’s successful and dignified execution.
Rabbi Zamir Isayev, head of Baku’s Sephardic community, said ahead of the event: “Israel and Jewish communities worldwide must embrace Azerbaijan and support the path it has chosen. We are witnessing a historic rapprochement between Baku and Washington, alongside peace and economic initiatives led by President Aliyev. These developments prove that Azerbaijan is not only a reliable partner but a country that stands by its traditions and sovereign path in the face of external pressures.”
According to him, “President Aliyev has repeatedly emphasized that respect for Jews is a way of life for Azerbaijanis. In a world where true friendship is a rare commodity, Azerbaijan has proven that its friendship with the Jewish people and with Israel is sincere and lasting. Such a bond is precious, and it is our duty to preserve and strengthen it.”