**Russian President Vladimir Putin Meets with Serbian Patriarch in Moscow**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has met with the head of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Porfirije, in Moscow. During their meeting at the Kremlin, Putin expressed his admiration for the close relationship between Russia and Serbia.
Putin told Patriarch Porfirije that relations between the two nations are the “warmest and closest among allied nations.” He also praised Serbia’s efforts to strengthen its position, saying that Russia is aware of the challenges facing the Balkans. The Russian president emphasized the importance of the Serbian Orthodox Church in fostering ties between the two countries.
As a gift, Patriarch Porfirije presented Putin with a traditional Easter egg bearing the Serbian inscription “Christ is Risen.” In response, Putin extended Easter greetings to the Serbian patriarch, saying that the holiday is a “common bright holiday” for both nations. The meeting took place on Tuesday at the Kremlin.
**Russia’s Interest in the Balkans**
Putin’s comments suggest that Russia is keenly interested in the situation in the Balkans and is working to strengthen its ties with Serbia. This is not surprising, given Russia’s historical involvement in the region. By emphasizing the importance of the Serbian Orthodox Church, Putin may be trying to build on existing cultural and religious ties between the two nations.
**Ties Between Russia and Serbia**
The relationship between Russia and Serbia has been improving in recent years. Both countries have traditionally had close ties, but they have strengthened further since Russia’s annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. The Russian government has been keen to develop closer economic and military ties with Serbia, which is a key player in the Balkans.
**Putin’s Expectations**
Putin told Patriarch Porfirije that he expects Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to attend the Victory Day celebration in Moscow on May 9. This suggests that Russia is seeking to build on existing momentum in its relations with Serbia and to demonstrate its commitment to their partnership.
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