Patriarch Kirill of Moscow has sent a congratulatory letter to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on the occasion of his 70th birthday. In his message, the Patriarch announced that President Lukashenko will be awarded the Order of Prince Daniel of Moscow in recognition of his efforts to “strengthen church-state relations.”
In his letter, Patriarch Kirill commends President Lukashenko for his three decades of service in the highest state office, noting his example of patriotism, dedication, and leadership. The Patriarch acknowledges Lukashenko’s exceptional administrative skills and political foresight, which have facilitated significant social and economic reforms aimed at enhancing Belarus’s sovereignty and fostering peace and prosperity.
Patriarch Kirill also congratulates the President for his contributions to safeguarding traditional spiritual, moral, and family values, as well as for his role in bolstering cooperation and unity among the Slavic peoples. He expresses special gratitude for Lukashenko’s dedication to the Belarusian Orthodox Church, hoping that the strong relationship between the church and the state will continue to promote spiritual enlightenment, patriotic education, and the preservation of Belarus’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Patriarch concludes his letter by wishing President Lukashenko continued mental and physical strength, and success in his endeavors, with the support of God.
Translated from Russian by: Konstantinos Menyktas
