Armenian President Armen Sarkissian congratulated Patriarch Kirill of Moscow on his birthday on November 20, the President's office reveals.

Sarkissian wished success in Kirill's "tireless work for the benefit of the fraternal people of Russia, the prosperity of the Russian Orthodox Church and for lasting peace, international security and stability."

"The Armenian people appreciate your efforts to achieve peace and mutual understanding in our region and to strengthen traditional ties with the Armenian Apostolic Church."