Фильм «Гармония»: азербайджанскую модель межрелигиозного диалога и развитие международной дипломатии
Rome Premiere of "Harmony" Documentary Showcases Azerbaijan’s Model of Interfaith Dialogue to Global Audience
ROME, Italy — In a major milestone for international cultural diplomacy, the European premiere of the Azerbaijani documentary film "Harmony" was held in Rome. This screening served as a powerful testament to how modern cinema can act as an effective bridge between different faiths and civilizations. The high-profile event was attended by the Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Leyla Aliyeva, alongside senior officials of the Holy See (Vatican), members of the foreign diplomatic corps, and global religious leaders.
Produced under the guidance of General Producer Arzu Aliyeva, head of the Baku Media Center, the film was created in partnership with Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Work with Religious Associations and the Moral Values Promotion Fund. The documentary delivers a timely and vital call for peace, tolerance, and mutual respect to the international community.
A Cinematic Bridge Between East and West
The presentation of "Harmony" in the heart of Rome underscores Azerbaijan’s strategic use of soft power and cultural diplomacy tools to foster global solidarity. By shifting the focus from political discourse to deeply human stories, the event effectively demonstrated that universal human values transcend cultural and religious divides.
Key highlights of the diplomatic and cultural resonance of the premiere include:
High-Level Recognition from the Holy See: The event received strong endorsement from the Vatican. A special address by Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Holy See’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, emphasized that the film moves beyond official declarations to capture the true essence of coexistence. "Harmony does not require us to erase our differences," the Cardinal noted, "but calls on us to learn to live with them in a spirit of respect, dialogue, and fraternity."
Visualizing the Heritage of Tolerance: Prior to the screening, international guests explored a curated photographic exhibition showcasing Azerbaijan’s rich multicultural and religious heritage. The display highlighted that the country’s ancient mosques, churches, and synagogues are not mere historic monuments, but active, living spiritual spaces protected by a consistent state policy of religious freedom.
A Universal Humanitarian Message: Through the lens of the daily lives, family traditions, and unbreakable friendship of three young women representing Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, the film presents a scalable blueprint for multiculturalism. In an era of rising global tensions, the documentary serves as a universal manifesto, proving that religious diversity enriches rather than divides a society.
Extending the Diplomatic Mission
"Harmony" is currently being successfully showcased at various international film festivals and cultural platforms worldwide. By sharing its deeply rooted traditions of interfaith peace through global cinema, Azerbaijan continues to strengthen its position as a vital international hub for intercultural dialogue and an active champion of global humanitarian values.
