An official reception on the occasion of Kurban Bayram took place in Moscow residency of extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of Saudi Arabia Mr Ali Hasan Jafar.

The event was attended by the deputy chairman of Russia Muftis Council Rushan hazrat Abbyasov and the head of RMC international department Ildar Galeev on the invitation of Mr ambassador.

During the meeting, extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria Mr Smaïl Chergui was awarded with Russian Muslim award, Order of Honour "Al-Fakhr"—"For significant contribution to the cause of spreading cultural and spiritual traditions of Islam, selfless service for the Muslim Ummah, active participation in the implementation of programs aimed at preserving peace and concord in society; for promoting dialogue and cooperation between Algeria and Russia"—and also to honour the end of his legation.

Mr Chergui was awarded by the deputy chairman of Russia Muftis Council Rushan hazrat Abbyasov, who greeted and congratulated him on behalf of the spiritual head of Russia's Muslims mufti sheikh Ravil Gaynutdin.

Ambassador Mr Chergui, in his turn, speaking in front of other ambassadors of Arab countries, thanked the administration of Russia Muftis Council and its chairman mufti sheikh Ravil Gaynutdin for finding wise decisions in difficult situations and fitting replies to the challenges of modern world. "The activity and projects of Russia Muftis Council are known not only in Russia but also abroad, and we will continue to support your initiatives in the future," said the ambassador.

During his service as an extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, Mr Smaïl Chergui helped strengthen and develop Russian-Algerian relations, which manifested itself in particular in signing of memorandum of understanding and cooperation between Russia Muftis Council and the Ministry of Religion and Wakuf of Algeria. It is also worth noting that Mr Chergui has always taken active part in programs and events organized by Russia Muftis Council.

RMC press service