The message reads:
“Dear friends,
Please receive my words of congratulations on this memorable date, the 17th anniversary of the withdrawal of the Soviet Limited Contingent from the Republic of Afghanistan.
February 15 is an unforgettable day for all who took part in the military operations on Afghan soil and did their honourable duty as soldiers. Today we honour the heroes and we pay tribute to the memory of all who gave their lives.
Throughout long years and far from their homeland, our soldiers and officers displayed their best professional and human qualities – loyalty to their oath and their training, endurance and courage, self-sacrifice and an ever-present readiness to help.
It is important that you were able to preserve and keep intact through the years the indestructible brotherhood of soldiers that helped you stand firm and overcome the most difficult ordeals with honour.
I wish you and all of your comrades-in-arms success, good health and prosperity”.