The message reads, in part:
“Your forum has great importance not only for media professionals, but also for the public life of the entire country. After all, journalism has always been more than just a chronicler: it is a direct participant of key national history events and has in many ways shaped public opinions, attitudes, values, morals and political inclinations, and created a national agenda.
The journalist’s word of honour commands great respect. Today, the growing number of media outlets and the appearance of new information technologies and opportunities have increased the demand for an active and responsible position of the media, as well as truly independent and courageous journalism, which Russia needs for effective democratic development, strengthening its civil society and addressing critical challenges. I want to emphasise that what is meant here is not just the objective and unbiased coverage of events and their deep analysis, but also the broader educational mission, the consolidation of the public in the fight against such phenomena as corruption, injustice, bureaucratic abuse of power, xenophobia and nationalism.
I hope that during the congress you will discuss in detail both professional and current, pressing issues that affect millions of our citizens.”