Mr Putin’s message of congratulations reads, in particular:
“This is an important date for our two fraternal peoples who are bound by a common historical memory and by close spiritual and cultural ties.
Russia and Belarus both value the traditions of friendship, good-neighbourliness and trust that have been with us through all these years, through difficult times, too, traditions that we have lovingly preserved and handed down from generation to generation. And it is pleasing to see these traditions being strengthened and enriched today.
I am certain that integration-based cooperation is in the interests of both Russia and Belarus, that it will contribute to rapid social and economic development in our countries, reinforce democratic institutions and provide a reliable guarantee for civil rights and liberties.”