Dear fellow countrymen!

I would like to heartily congratulate you and the entire Christian community of Azerbaijan on the sacred holiday of Christmas and convey my best wishes to all of you.

Representatives of different religions have lived in Azerbaijan in peace and tranquility for centuries. The presence of a historical tradition of dialogue between civilizations and cultures, the preservation of ethno-cultural diversity, the rich traditions of multiculturalism have played an exceptional role in the formation of nationwide public and spiritual values, principles of tolerance and civic solidarity in Azerbaijani society.

We see this historic heritage as an important achievement of our national statehood, consider the rights and freedoms of all citizens, irrespective of their language, religion and ethnicity, as well as the freedom of conscience and religion, as a priority of our public policy. I am pleased to note that the Christian community, which is an integral part of our multiethnic and multi-religious society, including our Orthodox compatriots, have demonstrated active citizenship in all spheres of public and political life and the immense creative work ongoing in our country.

Dear friends!

The feast of the Nativity, a symbol of renewal, peace, mercy and compassion between people, is solemnly celebrated in Azerbaijan every year. I congratulate all of you again on the occasion of this bright day and wish your families happiness and your homes abundance and prosperity.

Happy holidays!

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku city, 4 January 2013.