Patriarch Alexy congratulates Belarus President A. Lukashenko on victory in elections

His Holiness Patriarch Alexy II of Moscow and All Russia has sent a congratulation to the head of Belarus state Alexander Lukashenko on his victory in the presidential elections in Belarus. The text of the message is cited below.

Your Excellency,

Dear Alexander Grigorievich,

I heartily congratulate you on your victory in the presidential elections in Belarus.

Seeing the impressive results of your previous work in this office, the multinational people of the republic have again given you a vote of confidence through supporting your candidature by a majority of votes.

The centuries old history of Belarus is rich in events. However, in all situations and trials the people of Belarus set an example of courageous stand for their land, faithfulness to their old traditions, spiritual strength, sensitivity and kindness.

As primate of the Russian Orthodox Church, I am very much gratified with the fact that good relations have been established between the religious and secular leaders in Belarus in the last years. These relations are called to show common concern for the restoration of shrines ruined in the past, for religious education, Christian enlightenment and moral health of society. Your personal contribution to this important good undertaking is weighty and evident.

It is joyful that the Republic of Belarus overcomes all temporary difficulties and trials. The leadership of the country cares for people, creates favorable conditions for their worthy life and work, develops infrastructure of cities and towns and pays special attention to security, peace and accord in society. I witnessed to it more than once during my pastoral visits to Belarus when I met with Your Excellence, leadership and hospitable citizens of the Republic.

I hope for further development of church-state cooperation, which promotes the spiritual unity and moral and material well-being of the fraternal Belarussian nation.

Dear Alexander Grigorievich, I wish you physical and moral strength, wisdom, patience and blessed success in your further work for the welfare of your Motherland.

May God help you in your high and responsible ministry of the president of Belarus Republic.

Respectfully yours,

+ALEXY
PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA