The message reads, in part:
“Dear friends,
May 11, 2011 marks the start of an ambitious international programme, the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety.
Experts estimate that more than a million people die on the roads each year, one in five of whom are children. More than 50 million people are hurt or seriously injured. The international community therefore has a duty to develop a common strategy and joint action to enhance road safety.
Today the Russian Federation is undertaking major initiatives in this field. We are overhauling our legislation and putting in place a series of measures to make roads safer and more user-friendly for motorists and pedestrians alike.
I am convinced that this United Nations programme initiated by the Russian Federation will help to reduce road traffic injuries and enhance road safety throughout the world.
I wish you success and all the best in your efforts.”