Dear countrymen!

I would like to sincerely congratulate you and all our compatriots living in different parts of the world on the occasion of Eid al-Adha and wish each one of you all the best.

The Eid al-Adha ceremonies, embodying the perfection of Islam as a religion and the true path bestowed on mankind, invite Muslims to be prepared for any self-sacrifice in the name of noble deeds, to experience the joy of being close to the Almighty, and urge people to take the road of peace, stability and brotherhood.

Eid al-Adha holds a special place in the system of moral and spiritual values of the Azerbaijani people. Our people have been solemnly fulfilling their moral obligations in the name of Allah and religion for centuries. Sacrifices are being offered, prayers read in the name of the prosperity and progress of our state and the undying memories of our martyrs revered throughout our republic these days.

Dear brothers and sisters!

Being a symbol of humanism, benevolence and equality, Eid al-Adha further reinforces national and moral solidarity and endurance in our society and demonstrates the triumph of the feelings of compassion and mercy among people. On this august day I wish each one of you good health, happiness to your families and abundance to your homes.

My congratulations on the occasion of Eid al-Adha!

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku city, 4 November 2011