Putin wishes Gorbachev happy birthday

MOSCOW. March 2 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has wished Mikhail Gorbachev, first president of the USSR, who turns 91 today, a happy birthday, noting his authority and recognition.

"You have lived a long, eventful life; you have by right received great authority and recognition. It's a good thing that your multi-faceted work is now assisting with the implementation of important social, enlightenment, and charity projects, and the development of international humanitarian cooperation." This, according to a congratulatory post published on the Kremlin's website, which states that Gorbachev is president of the International Foundation for Socio-Economic and Political Studies.

"I wish you health, high spirits, and all the best," Putin said.