Azerbaijani president praises tolerance, unity in Easter message to Orthodox Christians

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has extended heartfelt congratulations to the country’s Orthodox Christian community on the occasion of Easter, sending a message of goodwill and unity.

In his letter, President Aliyev conveyed his sincere wishes to the Christian community, expressing happiness and well-being to all on the sacred holiday of Easter, Caliber.Az reports via AZERTAC.

"Dear fellow compatriots,

I sincerely congratulate you and the entire Christian community of Azerbaijan on the sacred holiday of Easter, and I extend my wishes of happiness and well-being to all of you," President Aliyev said in his message.

Highlighting Azerbaijan’s rich traditions of tolerance, the President emphasized the country’s unwavering commitment to religious and faith-based harmony throughout its history.

"In Azerbaijan, which has rich traditions of tolerance, there has never been a case of religious or faith-based discrimination throughout its history, and the country’s ethnocultural diversity has been preserved to this day," he stated.

President Aliyev also underscored the government's focus on promoting coexistence based on mutual respect, trust, and progressive social values as one of the central tenets of the country’s state policy.

"The promotion and encouragement in our society of a culture of coexistence based on mutual respect and trust, along with progressive social and moral values, is one of the key directions of our state policy," the President added.

The President further noted that the Christian community holds a distinguished role in Azerbaijan, contributing to an atmosphere of national and spiritual solidarity that the country is known for.

"Today, the Christian community holds a special place in our society, where an atmosphere of national and spiritual solidarity and exemplary tolerance prevails. I am pleased to note that our Christian citizens are honorably represented in the public, political, and cultural life of the country and make a valuable contribution to the development and progress of our common home — Azerbaijan," he remarked.

In conclusion, President Aliyev wished the Christian community a joyful Easter celebration and extended warm wishes for happiness and prosperity to all families.

"Dear friends,

Easter symbolizes renewal, rebirth, compassion, and mercy. On this bright day, I once again wish each of you a joyful celebration, and happiness and well-being to your families.

Happy holiday!" he concluded.

By Vafa Guliyeva