Yanukovych meets with leader of Orthodox Church of Cyprus

10/11/2012

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych on Friday met with Archbishop Chrysostomos II, Archbishop of Nova Justiniana and All Cyprus, the presidential press service has reported.

During the meeting, Yanukovych said that Ukraine and Cyprus were maintaining traditional friendly relations, which have deep historical roots. He said that a common spiritual foundation – the Orthodox faith – had for a long time promoted the development and strengthening of relations between the two countries.

The president appreciated a statement made by the leader of the Orthodox Church of Cyprus that he is maintaining contact with the leadership of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Yanukovych said that Ukraine, having the Orthodox spiritual foundation, unites many nations of different religions. In this context, he drew attention to the importance of the work of the Council of Churches, which promotes spiritual reconciliation between all religions in Ukraine.

While speaking about the pilgrimage of Ukrainian citizens to Christian shrines, Yanukovych noted the importance of constant connection with the memorable places and the history of Christianity.

Yanukovych also invited Chrysostomos II to visit Ukraine.

During his visit to Cyprus, Yanukovych visited Stavrovouni Monastery where he talked to the abbot of the monastery, Athanasius, and its monks.

The president also prayed in the monastery for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.

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