The message reads, in part:
“For over a century and a half, the Russian Red Cross has brought together a large, close-knit community of dedicated people who remain firmly committed to the ideals of mercy, compassion, and humanism.
It is gratifying that you continue to uphold the finest traditions of your predecessors, providing support and care to those in need, and implementing large-scale programmes to assist victims of emergencies, large families, the elderly, refugees and displaced persons. This important and selfless work requires generosity, sensitivity, and compassion from each of you.”