The telegram reads, in part:
“Twenty years ago, a major television project was launched with the broadcast of the Itogi and Segodnya news programmes. This channel spoke to the spirit and needs of its time and has played an exceptional role in the modernisation of Russian media and the lives of all our nation’s citizens.
You have been able to find your own inimitable creative style, which stands apart for its dynamism and depth. A bright assortment of diverse, informative programmes, the excellence of the presenters and their ability to communicate with their audience have gained great popularity among viewers and made NTV one of the recognised leaders in Russian television broadcasting.
I am confident that your wealth of experience and truly endless potential will help you to create high-quality television programmes, ranging from news and analysis to entertainment and children’s programming, at the very highest professional level, and to continue the best traditions of Russian television journalism.”