The message said, in part:
“I welcome the initiative of signing a public agreement on holding proper campaigns prior to the upcoming State Duma elections.
“It is important that political parties taking different positions and having different platforms share a common understanding of the importance of the adherence to the principles of law, democracy and ethics in the election process.
“I am confident that only honest and fair elections can bring strong, respected and reliable power. I hope that the forum will promote the development of Russia’s cultural political life.”