Azernews.Az

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev congratulated the Ortodox Christian community on Christmas on January 4, Trend news agency reported.

"Dear fellow countrymen, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you and the whole Christian community of Azerbaijan on the holy Christmas-the birth of Prophet Jesus," President said.

World religions in Azerbaijan have peacefully coexisted for centuries, the president added.

"Historical existence of an atmosphere of intercivilizational and intercultural dialogue here, preserving ethnic and cultural differences till our days, rich multicultural traditions played an important role in formation of national spiritual and social values and principles of tolerance and establishment of citizen solidarity in modern Azerbaijani society. We appreciate this historic achievement as an important success of our national statehood, and consider ensuring rights and freedoms of all citizens of the country regardless of their religion, language and ethnic origin, at the same time freedom of conscience and belief as one of priorities of the state policy. I want to note with satisfaction that as an integral part of our multinational and multiconfessional society, the Christian community, as well as our Orthodox countrymen are closely involved in all spheres of socio-political life of Azerbaijan and the ongoing building processes in our country," Ilham Aliyev noted.

According to the President, Christmas, which embodies renewal, peace, compassion and mercy, is solemnly celebrated annually in Azerbaijan. "Once again I extend my greetings to you, and may this blessed holiday bring happiness and welfare into your families. Happy Holiday!" Ilham Aliyev said.