Vladimir Putin has congratulated Muslims with anniversary of Russia's Central Spiritual Governance for Muslims

Celebrations on the occasion of 225th anniversary of Russia's Central Spiritual Governance for Muslims have begun with a moment of silence in memory of victims of act of terrorism in Volgograd.

The President of Russia in his speech has thanked representatives of all countries, which came to Ufa for celebrations.

“225 years ago a Spiritual Governance of the Mohammedan law was founded here in Ufa by the Decree of Russian Empress Catherine II. As a matter of fact, Islam was recognised as one of traditional religions of Russia at the state official level,” Vladimir Putin marked. “Russia, where majority of the population was constituted by orthodox Christians, showed the whole world, Europe, the way of toleration and wisdom.”

Deep mutual understanding and cultural interpenetration, valid dialogue of representatives of traditional religious faiths have formed spiritual unity of the country.

“Islam is a bright example of the Russian cultural code, an integral organic part of the Russian history.”

Vladimir Putin marked the followers of Islam who brought glory to our common Fatherland: statesmen, scientists, businessmen, representatives of culture and art, valorous soldiers.

The head of the state underlined the contribution of Muslims to the Victory during hard years of the Great Patriotic War. Then at congress of Muslim religious leaders in Ufa mufti Rasulev spoke about their sacred duty to protect the Native land.

Vladimir Putin has urged spiritual leaders to bring up youth in keeping with mutual respect based on feelings of patriotism and national consciousness.

“Consent and stability in our company is a guaranty of successful and safe development of our Native land.”