The telegram reads, in part:
“This holiday is celebrated by participants in all the national research programmes united by the Antarctic Treaty. Signed more than half a century ago, this unique document proclaimed the White Continent as an area of peace and international scientific cooperation.
Today, members of the Russian expedition face serious challenges that are highly necessary in modern times, identified by the Strategy for the Development of the Russian Federation’s Activities in Antarctica, the most important of which is steadily building a scientific presence in the region, implementing modern technologies for studying the continent’s geological, climactic features, and implementing other big projects. Let me stress that you are doing major, important work, making an enormous input into strengthening international cooperation and the spirit of genuine good neighbourliness.
Your difficult, selfless work is an example of devotion to professional duty and the interests of the Fatherland.”