In a Rosh Hashanah greeting to Russian Jews, President Vladimir Putin praised the holiday and the values of Judaism. “The traditions of the holiday include good deeds, concern for others, assisting the poor, and supporting those in need,” Putin wrote in the greeting. “The values of Judaism are based on eternal values of good and justice.”

“I am positive that the Jewish community in Russia will continue to contribute in an honorable manner to the advancement of inter-faith dialogue between religions and cultures in Russia, and for the strengthening of the nation’s traditions,” Putin wrote in his message.

The greeting has become a tradition in Russia; this is the tenth year Russian leaders have sent Rosh Hashanah greetings to the country’s Jewish community, via Russian Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar. Other Russian leaders sent their own Rosh Hashannah messages, including Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.

Putin’s message was read to congregants at Moscow’s central Marina Roschke Synagogue on the first night of Rosh Hashanah, and was heard by thousands of congregants.