President Ilham Aliyev addressed a congratulatory letter to the Orthodox Christian community of Azerbaijan.

Axar.az presents the text of the letter:

"Dear compatriots!

I wholeheartedly congratulate the entire Christian community of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the Holy Easter holiday, and give my most sincere wishes.

In Azerbaijan, which has an ancient history of statehood, members of different peoples and religions have been living in peace and tranquility for hundreds of years, preserving their language and culture, ethnic-cultural uniqueness without any discrimination. The promotion of the rich traditions of tolerance and multicultural values ​​of our people is one of the priority directions of the state policy implemented in our country.

Today, the Republic of Azerbaijan is a unique place where there is an environment of mutual respect and trust between different religions and beliefs, principles of democratic coexistence, and it makes important contributions to the development of inter-civilization relations in the world.

In our society, regardless of language, religion, ethnicity, everyone has equal opportunities for cultural self-expression. It is commendable that all ethnic and religious minorities of our country, including our Christian citizens, are closely involved in all spheres of social and political life, and fulfill their civic duty for the sake of the progress and prosperity of Azerbaijan.

Dear compatriots!

On the occasion of the Easter holiday, which is a symbol of revival, newness, mercy and kindness, I wish you health, happiness and prosperity to your families.

Happy holiday!".