Federal Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel congratulated former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev on his 90th birthday. The message to the hero of the day was published on Twitter by the representative of the German Cabinet of Ministers Steffen Seibert.
In her message, Merkel thanks Gorbachev “for his personal contribution to the peaceful overcoming of the Cold War and the reunification of Germany.”
In addition, she stressed the role of Gorbachev in the friendly relations between Russia and Germany. In conclusion, the Chancellor wished a policy of health and well-being.
Earlier on March 2, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson congratulated Gorbachev on his 90th birthday. The current President of the United States, Joe Biden, also sent congratulations to the ex-head of the USSR.
In a congratulatory telegram, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Gorbachev's role in Russian and world history. According to Putin, Gorbachev belongs to the galaxy of extraordinary people and outstanding statesmen.
Mikhail Gorbachev set a life expectancy record for Soviet leaders. He headed the USSR from 1985 until its collapse in 1991.
