Baku deemed position of Georgian Patriarchate regarding Kurmuk Cathedral unacceptable

The recent remarks by the Patriarchate of Georgia regarding the Kurmukh Temple, located in the territory of Azerbaijan, is contrary to the spirit of friendship, partnership and good-neighborly relations that exists between Azerbaijan and Georgia, Azerbaijan's Foreign Ministry said in statement.

The ministry also said that it is unacceptable to refer to geographical and historical toponyms located in the territory of Azerbaijan by other names.

"Azerbaijan has always respected the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia. At the same time, the Georgian side"s demonstration of the same respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan constitutes an important foundation of the strategic partnership relations established between the two countries," the statement reads.

According to the ministry, it is important that religious institutions refrain from approaches that could undermine the historical bonds of friendship and good-neighbourhood that have developed between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Georgia over the centuries.

"In this regard, repetition of the known approaches of the Armenian Church or following its path is not recommended. All historical, cultural and religious monuments located in the territory of Azerbaijan constitute an integral part of the national heritage of the Azerbaijani people and the Azerbaijani state," the ministry said.