The message reads, in part:
“Your forum invariably raises important and topical issues that concern the big family of Finno-Ugric peoples. It also helps bring people together around common goals and objectives.
The Finno-Ugric peoples have made a significant contribution to establishing and strengthening Russian statehood, developing national science, education and art. Their unique customs and traditions are part of our common heritage, an integral part of the cultural and ethnic diversity which has strengthened Russia for centuries.
Let me stress that we see issues related to preserving the identity and unique nature of each ethnic group, and strengthening inter-ethnic accord and harmony as priority tasks. Therefore, programmes to support national languages, schools, cultural and educational centres will undoubtedly be further developed. Large-scale educational, interregional and international projects will be implemented.
I am convinced that this important and relevant work requires the combined efforts of government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and academic and expert circles. I look forward to your active participation in this respect.”