President Putin: Attempts to instigate Islamophobia in Russia failed

"I would like to state that the attempts to instigate Islamophobia in Russia have completely failed in the long run," Russian President Vladimir Putin said, when speaking at the summit of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, OIC.

"As to the most serious threat of modern world - terrorism - Russia's stand is consistent and clear: terrorism should not be identified with any religion, cultural tradition or way of life," the Russian leader emphasised.

"Before this audience, I would like to responsibly declare that for the citizens of our country Russian Muslims are an inalienable, equal and full-fledged part of the multinational, multi-religious people of Russia," the President said.

"The Russian leadership views this inter-religious harmony as the country's strength, wealth and advantage," Putin pointed out.