MOSCOW. Jan 7 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has congratulated all Russian citizens on the Nativity of Christ, the presidential press service reported on Monday.

"This feast has brought the light of faith, hope and love for centuries. It turns us to eternal spiritual values that unite millions of people, values that play a special role in the Russian history and feed our national culture," Putin said in his Christmas greetings to Orthodox believers.

"The Russian Orthodox Church and followers of other Christian confessions pay most serious attention to strengthening the moral health of our society, propping up moral foundations, family and child care and help for the needy. This work deserves sincere recognition and respect," the president said.