Putin congratulates Russian Buddhists on the Lunar New Year

Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated the country's Buddhists on the White Month holiday, the Lunar New Year, noting their role in the public life of the Russian Federation. The text of the greeting was published on February 18 on the Kremlin's website.

"Buddhist organizations take an active part in the public life of the country, in the implementation of sought—after educational and charitable projects, make an active contribution to the harmonization of interreligious and interethnic relations, strengthening family values and educating young people," the message of greetings reads.

The Head of State also noted the support that the community provides to the participants of the special military operation (SVO) and their loved ones. In addition, he called the restoration of temples and architectural monuments by Buddhists, the construction of new monasteries and educational centers important.

The White Month Festival is a traditional holiday of the Mongolian peoples associated with the beginning of spring. It is one of the most important in Mongolian culture. The holiday symbolizes a person's love for his native land, and also embodies purity of thoughts and deeds.

On December 25 last year, the President of Russia announced that he had signed a decree on holding the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia in 2026. Later, on February 5, he announced the thematically open year in Russia. The initiative is aimed at strengthening national unity, peace and harmony between the different ethnic groups of the country.

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