Dear fellow countrymen!

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you and all our fellow countrymen living in different parts of the world on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, and wish each of you good health, family happiness and success in your works.

A symbol of nobility, benevolence and equality, Eid al-Adha encourages mercy, solidarity, brotherhood and humanity in people. On this blessed day Muslims demonstrate their readiness for any self-sacrifice in the name of Allah and religion and in the name of noble aims, as well as their attachment to moral values, and experience the joy of being close to the Almighty.

As an integral part of the Muslim world Azerbaijan has made an unparalleled contributions to the development of the Islamic culture throughout history. At the same time I am pleased to note that Islam had also played an exceptional role in building an exemplary environment of coexistence, tranquility and multiculturalism in a multi-ethnic and multi-confessional Azerbaijani society based on mutual respect and confidence.

The people of Azerbaijan have always been faithful to national and moral values and traditions, and fulfilled their religious ceremonies, including Eid al-Adha with great enthusiasm. Prayers are said for the tranquility and prosperity of our people and state, the undying memory of our martyrs is revered in all parts of our country these days. I am confident that this year's Eid al-Adha too will mark a triumph of the national and moral solidarity, noble deeds, and the feelings of compassion and mercy in our society.

Dear brothers and sisters!

I once again wish each of you robust health, your families happiness and your homes abundance.

Happy Eid al-Adha!

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, September 9, 2016