Maurice Druon Presents New Russian Editions of His Books to Vladimir Putin

Famous French writer Maurice Druon presented new editions of his books in Russian to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The presentation of the book took place in Moscow yesterday.

The state residence of Novo-Ogarevo is hosting a meeting between Vladimir Putin and Maurice Druon.

Taking the present, Vladimir Putin said that he already had these books. However, these editions were bound especially for the Russian President, Druon stressed. In addition, this is the first official edition of his books in Russia, as the previous were imitated editions, Druon said.

Vladimir Putin presented the art edition "Pskov Icons of the 13th-14th Centuries" and several art albums about Russian folk crafts to the writer.

Maurice Druon informed the President about his intention to go on pilgrimage to Leo Tolstoi's house-museum after the meeting. According to Druon, he owes much to the great Russian writer.

"Hundreds, thousands and maybe millions of Soviet citizens got to know medieval France" from Druon's books, the Russian President said. The writer is highly popular in Russia, Putin added.

According to the head of state, he was very happy to meet and dine "with the man, whose life is a legend".

"You started together with de Gaulle and have been arduously and effectively serving France all your life," Vladimir Putin said. He asked permission to address Druon "Mister Minister" as a former minister, in accordance with "a French tradition".

Speaking about the mutual influence of Russian and French cultures, Putin said that he would not enumerate French classics, loved by millions of Russians, and expressed confidence that "Tolstoi, Chekhov and Dostoyevsky are popular in France".