Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov congratulated Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Rus' on his birthday, calling him an example of Christian wisdom and dedication, and noting the patriarch's contribution to the unity of the Russian world. This is stated in the message of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
“Holy Father, I cordially congratulate you on your birthday. Following the difficult path of the Primate's ministry, you are an example of wisdom, Christian dedication and unshakable perseverance. In the face of the challenges facing our people, your wise pastoral words, which help millions of Orthodox Christians to find strong spiritual support and find moral guidance, are sorely needed,” he said.
Mr. Lavrov also noted the patriarch's altruistic social activities, his care for people in difficult life situations as well as the large-scale educational and charity projects carried out under his leadership.
“And of course, your efforts to unite the Russian world and strengthen the ties of compatriots with their historic homeland deserve the deepest respect,” he said. “Taking this opportunity, I would like to affirm the readiness of our Ministry to further build multifaceted cooperation with the Moscow Patriarchate in the interests of strengthening broad international cooperation and strengthening our country's position in a multipolar world,” the Minister emphasized.
