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Mr Putin’s message of congratulations reads in particular:

“This joyous celebration of moral cleansing and self-perfection also symbolises the spiritual revival taking place in the lives of millions of followers of traditional Islam in our country. During these days, held in great reverence by Muslims, it is the tradition to help the poor and unfortunate, visit friends and family and remember the departed. These wonderful, centuries-old, traditions are an integral part of the immense spiritual and cultural wealth of which our country, our multiethnic people, are so deservedly proud.

Russia’s Muslims have always been known for such qualities as good-neighbourliness, religious tolerance, a love of peace and showing care for others. Followers of traditional Islam have made a considerable contribution to strengthening civil consensus, harmony and inter-religious cooperation in our country. This is particularly important today when our state and society face the serious challenge of preventing all manifestations of ethnic and religious extremism.”