In Karyes, the administrative centre of Mount Athos, Vladimir Putin attended a prayer service in the Assumption Cathedral with Protoepistat Paul and the brethren and addressed those present following the prayer service.
Later the President of Russia met with members of the Holy Kinot. In his speech, Vladimir Putin emphasised the exceptional role of Mount Athos in preserving the traditions of Russian Orthodoxy. The meeting was also attended by President of Greece Prokopios Pavlopoulos.
Later, Vladimir Putin visited Rossikon – the St Panteleimon Monastery on Mount Athos. After the prayer service attended among others by Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, the Russian leader thanked Archimandrite Jeremiah and the brethren of the monastery for the hospitality and geniality extended to our compatriots. It is important to continue doing everything to ensure this little corner of Russia on Mount Athos continues to consolidate the spirit of all Orthodox believers, the President stressed.
Vladimir Putin also had a brief conversation with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia.