The prime minister and the patriarch met at the official patriarchal residence.

Congratulating Patriarch Kirill, Prime Minister Putin noted that the Russian Orthodox Church is doing a great deal to support people and help them through hardships. "The Church has always been by our side, having a great impact on the moral atmosphere in society," the prime minister said.

In his turn, Patriarch Kirill remarked that Russian society is changing fast. "The mission of the Church is to support this rapid development by means that help people remain strong spiritually," the patriarch said.

Vladimir Putin presented Patriarch Kirill with an icon of the Holy Lady of Kazan.