Azerbaijan is prioritizing its relations with the Vatican, President Ilkham Aliyev said at a meeting with Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe Monday, expressing hope for the development of bilateral cooperation.

The president said the laying of the foundation of a Catholic church in Baku Sunday was an important event. "The construction of this church in Azerbaijan points to a high level of religious tolerance in this country," he added. "All religions enjoy freedom in Azerbaijan."

Cardinal Sepe, Prefect of Evangelization of Peoples, said the Vatican highly valued Aliyev's decision to allow the Roman Catholic Church to build a church in Baku and a shelter for the poor.

"Azerbaijan has a tolerant atmosphere that is very important," he said.

About 300 Catholics, 50% of whom are foreign workers, live in Azerbaijan.