Azernews.Az

By Aynur Karimova

The number of persons inclined to radical religious groups has decreased in Azerbaijan, Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations Mubariz Gurbanli told Trend on November 16.

"Radical inclination has reduced. Also a decrease is being observed in the number of cases, when various radical groups attract especially young people to illegal armed units and take them from Azerbaijan. But this does not make us complacent. We believe that the fight should be carried out against all forms of radicalism," he said.

The committee chairman further noted that the committee's first goal is to conduct enlightenment works, to inform the population about Islam and Islamic values, while the second goal is to combat against radical religion groups whether in Christianity, or Islam, or Judaism.

"At the same time, we have a careful approach to the relations between the state and religion and religious relations in society, religious affiliation, and conduct campaign in this regard," he stated.

Gurbanli also mentioned the unacceptability of using religion for political purposes.

"Some groups are trying to politicize religion, pursue their political goals under the guise of religion. The state committee once again warns the persons and groups who want to use religion for political purposes that it is the wrong way, which will lead to negative results. There are laws in Azerbaijan which regulate the relations between state and religion. Therefore, all should comply with these laws. If someone tries to use religion for political purposes, we will not allow it. Society and the media outlets also should not allow this to happen," he stressed.

Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim country enjoys ancient traditions of tolerance and an environment of mutual trust and respect among various religious confessions exists in the country.

Muslims, Christians and Jews continue to live in peace, security and dignity in Azerbaijan, and this can be a great example and model for the rest of the world.

The government keeps tolerance as a constant focal point. Thanks to the wise policy pursued by the government, today, friendly ties exist among representatives of different religions and faiths in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan is against any kind of radicalism. There are well-established religious traditions in Azerbaijan, and the Azerbaijani people are committed to these traditions.

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Aynur Karimova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova

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