Mr Putin’s message was a response to a letter sent to him as part of the international action “The peace message of French schoolchildren to the government leaders and influential public figures of the planet.”
In his message, Russia’s head of state wrote:
“Dear boys and girls,
“I read your letter with great interest. Being concerned about the world makes one wish to make it more stable, safer and more beautiful.
“Indeed, as Antoine de Saint-Exupery wrote, the Earth that created man deserves our admiration. Everything must be done to preserve the “planet of humans” for future generations. I believe that all of us, irrespective of age and status, must work together to achieve a great goal: safeguarding peace, democracy, happiness and prosperity for all people.
“At present, the Russians and French are becoming more and more aware that they are close neighbours on our old continent. I believe that Russia and France will continue cooperating closely to build a prosperous Europe.
“You, dear boys and girls, have extended your hand of friendship to your coevals and adults in a noble effort to protect humanity from wars and suffering. We must learn to live and work together. There is no more important goal. Russia will firmly and consistently work to achieve stability and peace on the planet.
“I wish you health, happiness and success in your initiative!”