Putin Notes Religious Tolerance, Peace-Loving Character of Russian Muslims

October 12, 2007

Author: Staff Writer

Source: Interfax

http://www.interfax.ru/e/B/politics/28.html?id_issue=11885583

Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated Russian Muslims on the Eid ul-Fitr holiday, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the Kremlin said on Friday.

"This holiday of moral perfection and man's aspiration for piety is an integral part of a centuries-old spiritual legacy. It encourages friendship and creativity, kindness and compassion, as well as assistance to those in need," Putin said in his letter of congratulations.

"Neighborliness, religious tolerance, peacefulness, justice, and care for friends have always been inherent to faithful Muslims in Russia notwithstanding ethnic origin or faith. These qualities are always lasting values," Putin said.

"I am certain that Russian Muslims will always contribute to the strengthening of peace, friendship, and consent in society, as well as to the strengthening of mutual understanding between people of various faiths," the letter reads. ar md