TEHRAN - The Islamic Republic of Iran stressed that the message of Christianity is peace and love for the entire humanity.

In a message on the eve of the New Year, President Mohammad Khatami of Iran congratulated the birth anniversary of the divine messenger Jesus Christ to the heads and peoples of the Christian states.

In his message Khatami wished for the establishment of peace and friendship on the basis of justice in international relations.

Khatami also expressed hope that the peoples in various parts of the world employ all potentials to pave the way for the consolidation of relations between nations and foster development in the world.

Majlis Speaker Mahdi Karrubi also on Tuesday criticized certain world powers for advocating war and bloodshed across the world, but pretending to follow Jesus Christ (AS). Karrubi felicitated Christians on the Jesus Christ's birthday anniversary and the new Christian year, and regretted that despite Jesus Christ's stress on peace and tranquility, "we witness that certain governments intend to steer the world towards wars and conflicts."

Speaking at Tuesday's Majlis open session, he stressed that these governments' brutalities have targeted both Christian and non-Christian nations.

Jesus Christ is a 'messenger of justice', he said, regretting that the Prophet's instructions have not been completely observed by his followers.

He also expressed hope that followers of all prophets will unify and cooperate to encourage culture of dialogue among civilizations proposed by President Mohammad Khatami.