Pope Francis has addressed the Global Baku Forum, the appeal was read by the co-chair of Nizami Ganjavi International Center Ismail Serageldin at the opening of the Forum.

Axar.az reports that Pope Francis noted that the forum also coincides with the 880th anniversary of Nizami Ganjavi: “As a sign of respect to the works of Nizami Ganjavi, 2021 was declared as Nizami year in Azerbaijan.

"Nizami’s literary heritage is an element for regional unity. I believe that this forum will present concrete and efficient proposals which is important for international society. As well as finding this mutual interest will give impetus to strengthening international cooperation, dialogue and strengthening commitments regarding mutual respect.”