Greeting of the President of the Republic of Tatarstan, Mintimer Shaimiev, on the occasion of Kurban Bairam (Eid Al Idha)

December 8, 2008

Dear Muslims of Tatarstan!

With all my heart I congratulate you on the sacred holiday of Kurban-bairam!

One of the most revered Muslim holidays in the world, Kurban-bairam is a bright evidence of Islam's adherence to high universal values and ideals of humanism. The words of the Koran that read: "Show mercy to those on the earth, and mercy will be shown to in heaven" is an obvious reflection of good deeds being pleasing and important for believers.

Invaluable heritage of our republic is interethnic and civil consent, constructive ethnic and faith cooperation and genuine good neighborhood of different peoples. Following the best Islamic traditions, Tatarstan Muslims alongside with representatives of other faiths take an active part in enriching our richest religious and cultural heritage, in implementing socially important programmes and projects, in bringing up the rising generation. I am confident that such fruitful interaction will continue contributing to the process of moral societal revival.

May Kurban-bairam bring happiness and joy to all our homes, increase love and consent in each family.

Good health, happiness and well-being to you!

Mintimer Shaimiev
President of the Republic of Tatarstan