Greetings to Russia’s Jews on Rosh Hashanah

The message reads, in part:

"Rosh Hashanah, the opening day of the new year in the Hebrew calendar, calls believers to penance, gives them joy and hope, and strengthens moral values while encouraging the pursuit of the noble ideals of mercy and compassion.

It is gratifying that Russia's Jews, who honour their thousand-year-old traditions, contribute to the preservation of our country's cultural diversity, engage in public awareness campaigns and promote interethnic accord in our society."