If the Baku Declaration is signed at the forum, it would be a very crucial step, Rachida Dati, a member of the European Parliament and the mayor of the 7th arrondissement of Paris, said Monday in her speech at the panel discussion “Let’s share culture for the sake of common security: soft power in the modern world and contributions to the positive aspects of diversity” held as part of the 3rd World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.

Dati said Azerbaijan is largely contributing to intercultural dialogue.

“Azerbaijan is a powerful state playing a key role in intercultural dialogue. Azerbaijan can be an example to the world in terms of relations between religions and ethnic groups. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation too has contributed a lot to intercultural dialogue, offering support to important events in France. So Muslim Azerbaijan has contributed to the revitalization of the cultural heritage of France. In case of lack of such noble work, security will not be ensured. We should join our efforts so that we can defeat terrorism. We saw the terror that shook France. This is why we attach so much importance to intercultural dialogue. UNESCO has said the rate of literacy is 95 percent in Azerbaijan, which is a great figure. Azerbaijan’s development is quite impressive. We’re proud to be familiarized with Azerbaijani culture. The government of Azerbaijan is trying to promote culture within and beyond the country. I visit Gabala every year. A jazz festival is held there. We would like Azerbaijan to continue contributing to intercultural dialogue,” noted R. Dati.

R. Dati also mentioned that Azerbaijan has hosted the Eurovision song contest and will host the European Games next month, noting the necessity of Azerbaijan continuing to play a role in the strengthening of intercultural dialogue, adding the Baku process is a reality and will remain on our agenda.

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