Greetings of Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov on Christmas Day

Dear Orthodox citizens!

I congratulate you on Christmas Day.

This day embodies best human hopes and intentions for moral perfection, peace and prosperity. Christians acquire the faith in eternal life, become stronger in knowing the truth and love for one's neighbours. Christmas is the example of sanctity of traditional family values that embody eternal ideals of maternity, marriage, mercy and forgiveness.

In Tatarstan, where representatives of different nationalities and religions live in peace and concord, our common aspiration for fruitful cooperation and creation is becoming more important.

In 2015, when we honoured the memory of St. Vladimir, Equal-to-the-Apostles, was important for Orthodox life of Tatarstan citizens. We continued reconstruction of churches, held different Orthodox cultural events, including the main one, - the beginning of the reconstruction of the Cathedral of the Kazan icon of the Mother of God. I am sure that joint participation in noble causes will guarantee our progressive development and wellbeing. I wish you to feel Christmas spirit, confidence in your own abilities, peace, and prosperity!

Tatarstan President, Rustam Minnikhanov.