Putin congratulated Canadian PM on getting International Public Figure of the Year award

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a letter of congratulation to Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien on the occasion of his being awarded the title of the International Public Figure of the Year 2002.

The document particularly notes that Russia knows about the energetic activity of the Canadian Prime Minister in the cause of strengthening international peace and stability, said the press-service of the Russian President to RIA Novosti.

Russia "thinks high of your contribution to the successful development of friendly Russian-Canadian relations," the Russian head of state noted.

On October 1st, 2002 in New York the well-known non-governmental foundation "Call of Conscience" awarded Jean Chretien the annual International Public Figure of the Year title for promoting peace, democracy and tolerance, and contribution to the development of Africa.

Previously awarded figures are King of Spain Juan Carlos I, German Chancellor Gerhard Shroeder, Brazilian President Enrique Cardozo and other well-known political figures.