The message reads, in part:
“I am glad to welcome the organisers, judges, guests and athletes from 39 countries, who have come to Russia to take part in the Rifle World Championship.
In the next few days you will have to demonstrate your art in the world’s first ever rifle championship, in this multifunctional shooting centre in Patriot park – in the world’s best shooting venue to date.
I am confident that fair competition on the shooting range and friendly communication between athletes and fans will popularise the sport, promote a higher level of awareness on how to properly handle weapons, consolidate mutual understanding and cooperation between the peoples of our countries, and all in the interests of the overall peace and personal safety.”
During the 37th General Assembly of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) held in 2013, Russia was unanimously selected to be the host country of the first ever Rifle World Championship.