En français

It is with great interest that I became acquainted with the position of the Department for External Relations of the Orthodox Church, headed by yourself, on ‘The White Paper on European Governance’, developed by the Commission. Your reaction to this document manifests your willingness to understand, to participate and to cooperate. As the President of the European Commission I consider this necessary in order that we may together build our common future, which is needed by people, nations and countries of a new Europe. <...>

Europe is a continent where multiple ethnic groups live together, each having its own face, its language and culture. All these elements are in interaction. We have an important task: to fight for further development of these elements which must not lose their characteristic traits. This is why I consider the cultural and spiritual contribution of the Russian Orthodox Church, which is so deeply rooted in many areas of Europe and of neighbouring countries, necessary and timely. I regard this contribution as most precious. The Russian Orthodox Church has the full right to further the implementation of the ‘European project’: this is conditioned by its history, by its Christian tradition and its presence.

You write that the Russian Orthodox Church is prepared to contribute to securing harmonious coexistence of different religions in Europe and in developing the legislation concerning the status of religious communities in future Europe. In this connection the dialogue between the Churches plays a significant role in peaceful and brotherly coexistence of different religions. <...>

I greet with joy the willingness to participate in the process of building Europe which you express in your letter. I am convinced that the collaboration of the Russian Orthodox Church is needed by a new Europe.