The following is the Christmas message by His Excellency, President Bharrat Jagdeo:

"We are at this time celebrating in Guyana another Christmas, the Christian festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Typical of all Guyanese, Christmas is a bounty of good cheer, merriment, generosity and wholesome hospitality. No matter what the circumstances, this is a very special time of the year.

On behalf of the Government of Guyana and on behalf of myself and First Lady, Varshanie Jagdeo, let me extend greetings to you for a truly happy and enriching holiday.

I take this opportunity to extend a heartfelt welcome to all the visitors to the country and hope that you will have an enjoyable stay in our country as you unite with your friends and loved ones.

The birth of Jesus Christ reminds us of the eternal message of hope which is at the center of the belief of all Christians. The Christmas story of a child born in humble settings is timeless and one that reveals the special place of humankind in the world.

I want to urge all Guyanese at this time to rejoice in this message of hope, knowing that the Christmas story also speaks of love - the protective love of parents for their children and for all human beings.

May we all use this Season therefore to reflect on this profound theme of love. And may it inspire us to be guardians of the peace and unity here in Guyana.

It would be remiss of me if I forgot the many families of whom personal tragedy has visited this year. I wish to assure them of my continued concern, compassion and understanding.

Our nation is stronger because of the deep human values we share as a people, values that transcend our ethnic and political differences. Amongst these values is the outright rejection of violence and things that harm moral conduct. At this time of the year, when we celebrate this auspicious occasion, may we all renew our opposition to violence in all its forms and guises.