On June 6, 2025, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko at the Palace of Independence in Minsk. The meeting was also attended by Metropolitan Benjamin, Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus.
President Lukashenko thanked the Patriarch for visiting Belarus, highlighting the peaceful development of the country despite external pressures. He also spoke about recent efforts to establish religious centers for various faiths, including Orthodox, Catholic, Muslim, and Jewish communities, noting the importance of religious harmony in Belarus.
Patriarch Kirill praised Belarus for its spiritual stability and awarded President Lukashenko the Order of the Holy Prince Daniel of Moscow (1st Class) for his contributions to Church-state relations.
During a press briefing, the Patriarch emphasized the close cultural and spiritual ties between Russia and Belarus. He also expressed support for humanitarian efforts such as prisoner exchanges with Ukraine and called for stronger Christian unity, including positive relations with the Roman Catholic Church.
Patriarch Kirill concluded his visit by thanking Belarusian officials for their hospitality before departing for Moscow.
Photos: foto.patriarchia.ru
