Dear countrymen!

I sincerely congratulate you on the sacred Ramadan holiday and wish each one of you all the best.

Azerbaijan has always been one of the historical and cultural centers of the Muslim world. Our people have remained true to their religion, national and spiritual values for centuries. The freedoms of conscience and religion in our independent republic are guaranteed under national and international law, there are favorable conditions for the free exercise of religious rites, ceremonies and celebrations.

Like the rest of the Muslim world, our nation annually celebrates the Ramadan holiday with a great sense of joy. The month of Ramadan, in which the holy Koran was heaven-sent, demonstrates the triumph of unity and equality, kindness and charity among people, attachment to the Creator and divine wisdom.

During this month Muslims have the opportunity to fulfill their duty of conscience before Allah and religion, experience the joy of the victory of spiritual richness and moral perfection over temptation.

The Month of Ramadan, which further enhances the sense of unity and humanity in society, love for Allah and the motherland, is nearing its end. Our citizens who have proudly coped with the test of fasting these days sincerely share their festive joy. Wishes of prosperity and progress for our people and the state are expressed, prayers offered for the repose of the immortal souls of our martyrs.

Dear brothers and sisters!

While wishing for your prayers and wishes to be heard in the kingdom of the Creator, I congratulate you and all our compatriots living in different parts of the world on the occasion of Ramadan, wish your families happiness and your homes abundance and prosperity.

May Allah accept your fasting!

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku city, 17 August 2012