Putin sends 85th birthday wishes to Bush Sr.

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has sent a telegram wishing former U.S. President George H.W. Bush a happy 85th birthday, saying he deserves to be considered among the "most authoritative" world leaders.

The state news agency RIA Novosti carried the text of the telegram, in which Putin told Bush how much he valued the time they spent together.

Putin recalled his visit to the Bush family home in Kennebunkport, Maine, in 2007, when he and George W. Bush were still sitting presidents.

In the telegram, Putin thanked Bush Sr. for his "sincere interest in Russia, its history and culture." He ended by wishing him good health and happiness for his "large and friendly family."

Bush planned to celebrate his birthday Friday by making a parachute jump.