President Vladimir Putin announced the award of the Order For Services to the Fatherland, 1st Class, to Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia Alexy II at a meeting in the residence of the head of the Russian Orthodox Church. The head of state emphasised that the order was awarded to Alexy II for his distinguished contribution to the consolidation of peace and concord between the nations, and preservation of the historical and cultural heritage of Russia.
Vladimir Putin congratulated Alexy II on his anniversary on behalf of the citizens of Russia, and wished all the best to the Patriarch.