The message reads, in part:
“The legendary Sevastopol bathed in the military glory of many generations of Russian soldiers has the right to be proud of its heroic history and outstanding patriotic, cultural and spiritual traditions.
Of course, special and unforgettable pages in its history are connected with the Great Patriotic War: the unparalleled defence of the fortress city and liberation of Crimea from the enemy.
Red Army soldiers and officers as well as Black Sea sailors fought for every street and building, sacrificing their lives and showing courage, valour and strength.
It is our common moral duty to preserve the memory of this heroic deed, to protect the historical truth and to care about the veterans and members of the older generation whose lives were scorched by war.
It is important that your conference promotes these noble goals as well as the patriotic education of young people and helps Sevastopol and Crimea make new sincere friends and reliable partners.”