Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Sunday published a message wishing Christians a happy Christmas.
In a Christmas message released on the Presidency’s website, Erdogan highlighted the “utmost care” given in Turkey and Turkish tradition to ensure no discrimination among people based on “race, language, religion or denomination”.
“In context of our civilization’s values, we, who take care to not discriminate people by their race, language, religion and sect, attach great importance to all citizens freely practicing their own culture, religion and traditions,” he stated.
Stressing that Turkey has been the peaceful home of different cultures and traditions for centuries, Erdogan said this reinforces the “unity and solidarity” among the county’s populace, who view such differences as a “valuable asset”.
“I wish the entire Christian world, primarily our Christian citizens, a happy Christmas.”
He expressed hope this year that Christmas would lead to a strengthening of “solidarity and mutual respect” in Turkey.
For Christians, Christmas marks the birthday of Jesus Christ.
One of Christianity’s most culturally significant celebrations, Christmas Eve is observed by most non-Orthodox Christians on Dec. 24 every year.
