The message said, in part:
“Our countries are gradually advancing towards mutually advantageous integration and the development of political, economic and cultural relations based on the historical identity, friendship and cultural affinity of the two fraternal peoples.
“The Russia-Belarus Union State is now taking shape and bringing concrete results. I am convinced that our interaction in all spheres will continue to develop in the interests of both Russian and Belarusian peoples and their growing well-being.”