“It is from the bottom of my heart that I wish to congratulate Orthodox Christians and all Russians celebrating Easter on this great holiday.
“Easter celebrations are becoming increasingly popular in our society with every passing year, filling the hearts of millions of Russians with love, joy and kind feelings of charity and compassion. This is how we are reviving a precious spiritual foundation, without which national development, the strengthening of law and order and effective state power, peace and prosperity are unthinkable.
“The Russian Orthodox Church and other traditional sects and religions play a tremendous role in uniting the people of Russia around common moral values. I know that the state’s relations with religious organisations will continue to develop actively; this is particularly true of such areas as the strengthening of civil harmony, keeping the peace, social security, charitable and educational activities.
“I believe that we will revive a strong and prosperous Russia through concerted action in the 21st century.
“I sincerely wish all Orthodox Christians and all fellow Russians celebrating Easter health, peace and prosperity.”
Vladimir PUTIN