Patriarch’s greetings to François Hollande with his election President of the French Republic

His Holiness Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia sent the greeting to Mr. François Hollande, President-elect of the French Republic:

Dear Mr. Hollande:

Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on winning presidential election. Your election as head of the state testifies to the support of your programme by the majority of the Frenchmen.

I am confident that your knowledge and rich experience accumulated during many years of your work at important and responsible positions will help you at your new post.

Russian Orthodoxy has been present in your country for several centuries. The spiritual and administrative centre of the Korsun diocese of our Church is located in Paris; and the construction of a new cathedral church will begin next year.

The Russian Orthodox Church appreciates and cherishes good relations with the French state, public and religious leaders. I do hope that our constructive cooperation will develop.

I wish you spiritual and physical strength and success in your work as President, and well-being and prosperity to the people of France.

Yours truly,

+ KIRILL

Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia