Matthew was pleased to take time out to visit a synagogue in central Baku whilst part of a delegation of British Parliamentarians to Azerbaijan.

The nation, which is 95% Muslim, has historically embraced Western values of liberal democracy, gender equality and diversity, to the degree that the State has funded the building of a synagogue to cater to its population of Caucasus ‘Mountain’ Jews, who are descended from the Persian Jews of Iran.

Matthew, along with fellow delegation member and Chairman of the APPG for Azerbaijan Bob Blackman MP, were honoured to be hosted at the synagogue by Yevdayev Milax Ilxanonovic, the Leader of the Mountain Jews in Azerbaijan, and to also meet with Rabbi Abraham.

The largely secular nation of Azerbaijan considers itself an ally of Israel and a friend to Jews around the world. Matthew was pleased to be able to discuss ties between the UK, Azerbaijan and friendly allies including Israel with senior politicians including the Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, Mr Elmar Mammadyarov.