Putin says Russia watches Middle East Christians' fate closely
Putin also presented Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem with Russia's Order of Friendship for his contribution to ties with Moscow.
Russian President Vladimir Putin told the heads of the Jerusalem and Russian Orthodox churches on Thursday that Russia closely follows the situation of Christians in the Middle East, Russia's state news agency TASS reported.
"Russia has traditionally paid special attention to the situation with Christians, the Christian population in the Middle East region," Putin said.
Speaking to Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, Putin acknowledged that the patriarch also faces a difficult situation because of the complex conditions in the region.
Putin noted, however, that the Jerusalem Orthodox Church is operating smoothly with the support of local authorities.
"For our part, we will do everything to develop relations," he added.
Putin presented Theophilos III 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," Putin said, wishing the patriarch all the best.
The meeting included Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia, who heads the Russian Orthodox Church.
The Order of Friendship is one of the state decorations Russia awards to foreign citizens for services to ties with the country.
Christian communities have shrunk in several Middle Eastern countries over recent decades, a trend linked by many observers to conflict, economic hardship and emigration.
The Jerusalem Orthodox Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in the world, has long maintained ties with Russia, which has historically presented itself as a protector of Orthodox Christians abroad.
