Patriarch Kirill congratulated Putin on his birthday and thanked him for the support of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Patriarch Kirill congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin on his birthday and wished him God's help and success as head of state. The congratulation was published on the official website of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) on October 7.

"Please accept my sincere congratulations on your birthday. More than a quarter of a century ago, you were called to a very important and difficult ministry <... >. I wish you endless strength, generous help from God, and blessed success in your continued service for the benefit of your country and fellow citizens," the telegram reads.

Patriarch Kirill also noted that under Putin's leadership, the Russian Federation is following the path of socio-economic development and strengthening its sovereignty, as well as scientific, technical and military potential, ensuring national security.

At the same time, the Patriarch expressed special gratitude for the assistance and attention of the Russian leader to the ministry of the Russian Orthodox Church, as well as for the support of its various socially significant initiatives.

Earlier in the day, Nicaraguan Co-Presidents Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo also congratulated the head of state on his birthday and wished the Russian leader success and happiness in victory.

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko also congratulated Putin on the holiday. He specified that the dynamic economic development, the strengthening of the statehood and sovereignty of the Motherland, the growing authority and strengthening of Russia's role in the world are the merits of the head of state.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.