The message reads, in part:
“A modern and efficient disaster relief system has been operating successfully in this country for over twenty years. In the past years, the Ministry’s employees have conducted thousands of rescue operations both in Russia and beyond it, saving numerous lives. You are the first to come to the rescue of those who are in trouble. Your work is precise and well organised. They say being a rescue worker is not just a job, it is a calling, and only brave and strong-willed individuals choose this difficult path in life.
You have demonstrated your best qualities this year, when practically the entire population of the Russian Far East found itself in a disaster area. Your selfless concerted efforts have gained you the heart-felt gratitude of all the Far East residents.
Today the Ministry is facing large-scale, much-needed tasks. We need to actively introduce advanced information technologies and new equipment, develop early warning and risk forecasting systems, and improve personnel training methods. Special attention should be given to education and promoting the culture of health and safety.”