The message reads, in part:
“I send you my warmest greetings on the opening of the festival of Russian culture, which hospitable Japan is hosting for the eleventh time now. This year, it is timed to a memorable date, 60 years since the restoration of diplomatic relations between our countries.
The year 2016 has been declared the Year of Russian Cinema, and so films feature prominently in the festival’s programme. The audiences in the cities and prefectures around Japan will be able to see not just the masterpieces of Soviet and Russian cinema art, but also new fiction films and documentaries.
In addition, there will be concerts by symphony orchestras, virtuoso singers, theatre, ballet, pop, circus and folk groups, as well as art exhibits.
I am confident that this festival will become an outstanding and memorable event in Japan’s cultural life and will help strengthen trust and mutual understanding between our nations.”