“The wonderful books you have written are beloved by many generations of Russian readers”, Mr Putin said in his message of congratulations. “Your thrilling historical novels are printed by the millions in Russian and are snapped up by readers. In Russians’ minds, your name stands among the ranks of such classics of French literature as Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas and Stendhal.
You are known in our country as a loyal friend, who spares no effort to strengthen the friendly and fruitful ties between Russia and France, especially in the cultural field”.