ANKARA 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday extended Christmas greetings to Christians in Türkiye and across the world.

In a message, Erdogan said he congratulates the whole Christian world, especially Turkish Christian citizens, and wishes them well.

"In line with the values of the civilization to which we belong, we consider the existence of different religions and cultures as a richness. This understanding, which is the basis of the peace and security, unity and solidarity of our nation, is our most important power that will enable us to live together peacefully in the future,” Erdogan said in a message.

He expressed hope that the Christmas will be “instrumental in the development of the climate of solidarity.”

For Christians, Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ.

One of the most significant celebrations in Christian culture, Christmas Eve is observed by most non-Orthodox Christians on Dec. 24 every year.​​​​​​​