MOKRA-GORA, November 24. /TASS/. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Serbian film director Emir Kusturica with his seventieth birthday and highlighted his gifted works making a bright page in the global art history.

Counsellor of the Russian Embassy in Serbia Natalia Klischenkova read the text of the telegram to Kusturica.

"Dear Mr. Kusturica, I congratulate you with your seventieth birthday. The man of bold and multifaceted talent, the real artist - you rightfully won fame as one of the most well-known film directors of our times, succeeded as the popular actor, musician and writer, and the author of outstanding creative projects," the Russian leader said.

"I would like to particularly note your active public position and the great contribution to implementation of significant initiatives in the humanitarian sphere, aimed at strengthening confidence and understanding among the peoples," Putin added, wishing "health, inspiration and new successes" to Kusturica.