Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, Chairman of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, sent a heartfelt congratulatory message to Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić on the occasion of his 55th birthday.
In his letter, Metropolitan Anthony expressed his sincere congratulations, acknowledging President Vučić’s political experience and leadership: “In Russia, you are known as an experienced politician and statesman. For more than ten years, you have held the highest state positions—first as Prime Minister and now as President. This testifies to the high degree of trust that the Serbian people place in you.”
The Metropolitan also emphasized the strong ties between Serbia and Russia, which he says that are rooted in their shared Orthodox faith, which has shaped their spiritual and cultural identity. He highlighted the importance of cooperation between the Russian and Serbian Orthodox Churches, stating: “It is gratifying that in your political activities, you pay attention to the development of relations between Serbia and Russia. The peoples of our countries are united by a common Orthodox faith, which has shaped their spiritual and cultural identity. The Russian Orthodox Church attaches great importance to strengthening this unity, including through fraternal cooperation with the Serbian Orthodox Church.”
Reflecting on his visit to Belgrade in November last year, Metropolitan Anthony warmly recalled his meeting with President Vučić during the celebrations marking the centenary of the Holy Trinity Church of the Russian Orthodox Church Representation in Belgrade: “I fondly remember our meeting in November last year in Belgrade, where I was present for the celebration of the centenary of the Holy Trinity Church of the Russian Orthodox Church Representation in Belgrade.”
Concluding his message, Metropolitan Anthony extended his best wishes for health, divine assistance, and success in the Serbian President’s state duties: “I wish you, dear Mr. President, both spiritual and physical health, God’s help, and blessed success in your responsible state service.”
Source: mospat.ru / Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
