Congratulations from A.G. Balayeva, Deputy Prime Minister – Minister of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, on the Occasion of Metropolitan Alexander Receiving a State Decoration of the Russian Federation

To His Eminence Metropolitan Alexander of Astana and Kazakhstan,

Head of the Orthodox Church of Kazakhstan

Your Eminence,

Please accept my heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of your being awarded the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland,” Second Class, a state decoration of the Russian Federation.

This high distinction is a well-deserved recognition of your devoted archpastoral ministry, your significant contribution to the strengthening of spiritual and moral values, the development of interreligious dialogue, and the preservation of the traditional ideals that unite our peoples.

The presentation of the order by Dmitry Nikolayevich Chernyshenko, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation, is yet another testament to your distinguished public standing and to the recognition of your outstanding service to the Orthodox Church.

You are a wise spiritual shepherd who has dedicated your life to fostering mutual understanding, unity, and good-neighborly relations. Your ministry continues to promote interfaith harmony and to cultivate a culture of mutual respect and trust, which form a firm foundation for the stability and unity of Kazakhstan’s society.

I wish Your Eminence good health, abundant spiritual strength, and every success in your dedicated and fruitful ministry.