In his telegram, the President said, in particular:
“We have lost one of world culture’s outstanding figures, a recognised classic, one of the best known French writers of modern times, and an exceptional and memorable person.
A genuine humanist and participant in the French Resistance during World War II, Maurice Druon was unwavering in defending the values and ideals of European culture. He was an active advocate of developing international humanitarian dialogue and cooperation.
Maurice Druon’s works, especially his unforgettable historical novels, have always been immensely popular in Russia, and the number of admirers of his talent has not declined with time. He was a loyal friend of Russia and made a great contribution to building up friendly ties between Russia and France.”
In 1993, a Russian presidential executive order awarded Maurice Druon the Order of Friendship of Peoples.