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Russia pays great attention to Christians’ fate in Middle East — Putin

The Jerusalem Orthodox Church, with the support of local authorities, is operating smoothly, the Russian President said

MOSCOW, November 5. /TASS/. Russia has always sympathized with the situation of the Christian population in the Middle East, President Vladimir Putin told Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem and Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia.

"Russia has traditionally paid special attention to the situation with Christians, the Christian population in the Middle East region," he said.

"I know that you also have a difficult situation, because the situation in the region is quite complex," the president addressed Theophilos III.

Nevertheless, the Russian leader noted, the Jerusalem Orthodox Church, with the support of local authorities, is operating smoothly.

"For our part, we will do everything to develop relations," he added.

Putin presented Patriarch Theophilos·III of Jerusalem with the Order of Friendship for his significant contribution to strengthening friendship, cooperation, and spiritual ties with Russia.

"It is a great honor for me to present you with this order," he said, wishing Patriarch Theophilos III all the best.