The well-attended reception included officials of the U.S. State Department, representatives of the Los Angeles County and City, Los Angeles Police Department, consuls general and honorary consuls of many different countries, professors of various Californian universities, journalists, as well as members of Azerbaijani, Turkish, Jewish, Korean, Hispanic, Iranian and other communities.

Addressing the audience, Consul General Nasimi Aghayev spoke of the significance of the Republic Day (May 28) for Azerbaijan, a date on which 99 years ago the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the first-ever secular democracy in the entire Muslim world was established. The Consul General noted that this important event played a crucial role in strengthening of national statehood traditions of the Azerbaijani people. Speaking of Azerbaijan’s development as a free nation since the restoration of its independence in 1991, the Consul General stressed that the goal-oriented political, economic and social policies under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership have turned Azerbaijan into a center of prosperity and stability in a challenging region, and a regional mega-hub for energy, trade, transportation and education. Aghayev also noted that Azerbaijan is proud to be called an exemplary model of multiculturalism and interfaith harmony creating an inclusive environment where Muslims, Christians and Jews continue to live side by side in peace and dignity.

Then Bishop Juan Carlos Mendez, the founder of the prominent “Churches in Action” and the leader of the Los Angeles Interfaith Council, presented a certificate of commendation to the Consul General. He was joined by Dr. Jannah Scott, former Deputy Director at the Center of the White House Office of Faith-based & Neighborhood Partnerships, and other members of the Los Angeles Interfaith Council. Bishop Mendez and Dr. Scott hailed Azerbaijan’s model of interfaith harmony and multiculturalism.

The event also featured three diplomats of Azerbaijan’s Consulate General in Los Angeles, whose 4-year tenure is about to expire soon and who will be returning to Azerbaijan. The diplomats were presented with gifts on behalf of the Consulate General in honor of their dedicated diplomatic service.

Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles