“The Games in Baku gave an impetus to the strengthening of Islamic solidarity because athletes from Muslim countries were close contact with each other for some time,” said President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev as he met with athletes representing the country at the 5th Islamic Solidarity Games in the city of Konya, Turkiye.

“I am sure that you will make new friends here as well. These Games are both a sports competition and a factor that strengthens unity, solidarity and friendship among Muslim countries,” the head of state noted.

President Ilham Aliyev said: “This time, after Baku, these Games are being held in Konya, in a fraternal country for us. I am sure you feel at home here. Of course, the fact that these Games are being held in Turkiye creates additional opportunities for us. Of course, we are very glad that these Games are being held in brotherly Turkiye. I am sure that these Games will be remembered both as a celebration of sports and a holiday of Islamic solidarity. In the Islamic Solidarity Games held in Baku five years ago, our team showed a very good result and finished first in team standings.”