The message reads, in part:
“It is important your forum has been building up its authority as an influential public discussion venue for considering topical and pressing issues of today. The mass media’s concerted stance can and must play a tangible, truly unique role in addressing these issues. It is the diversity of media resources – from daily newspapers and television channels to electronic media and the Internet – that largely determines the current and future trends in global politics, the economy and in all spheres of life. This role requires high professional, civil and moral responsibility.
For this reason I believe it is very important that the agenda of the summit includes such key issues as the evolution of ethical standards for the media community, enhancement of the guarantees of media impartiality and independence, guarantees of the freedom of speech, the promotion of an equitable and constructive dialogue with state bodies, the business community and non-governmental organisations.
I am confident that informal and meaningful discussions will be held within the framework of this summit and that foreign participants will have an excellent opportunity to see for themselves the realities of Russia’s present-day life and enjoy to the full the friendly and hospitable atmosphere of our capital.”
The World Media Summit is taking place in Moscow on July 5–7, 2012.