Address of the Tatarstan President Rustam Minnikhanov dated to Day of official adoption of Islam by Volga Bulgaria

Dear Tatarstaners!

I sincerely congratulate you on this important historical date – Day of official adoption of Islam by the Volga Bulgaria! For the centuries-old history Islam has played an important role in spiritual life of the Russian nations.

Freewill adoption of Islam by the Volga Bulgaria as state religion in 922 was one of the most significant stages in formation and development of Islam. It gave impetus to social - economic and cultural development of the region gradually turning it into an important religious centre.

Later on, Islam became one of the leading factors in formation of universal values, humanistic ideas and tolerant interaction between different nations on the territory of Tatarstan and whole Russian Federation.

Today republic enjoys unique religious traditions which favor preservation and development of rich spiritual heritage, history, language and culture of our people. Tatarstan Muslims and other confessions take an active part in the process of revival of our spiritual origins. I am glad that major work on restoration of ancient town of Bolgar and island-town Sviyazhsk is implemented with participation of the civil society.

Celebration of the Day of official adoption of Islam by the Volga Bulgaria lays good traditions based on everlasting spiritual and moral religious values, favors consolidation of interethnic harmony in our republic. I sincerely wish you spiritual harmony, happiness and success!

President of the Republic of Tatarstan R.N.Minnikhanov