The message to Bernadette Chirac reads, in part:
“On behalf of the Government of the Russian Federation and on my own behalf, I express sincere condolences over the death of your husband, former President of France Jacques Chirac.
An outstanding politician, who played an important role in the contemporary history of France, has passed away. Jacques Chirac was a sincere and good friend to Russia; he was deeply interested in Russia’s history, culture and art.
I would like to highlight Mr Chirac’s profound personal contribution to the development of friendship and partnership between Russia and France. His great services to strengthening bilateral cooperation were recognised by the Russian Federation National Award in 2008.”