The message said, in part:
“Close contacts between different cities in Russia and Germany play an important role in strengthening mutual understanding and trust between them and help to promote mutually advantageous economic cooperation as well as expanded cultural, humanitarian and other ties.
“There are now many examples of such successful cooperation. Today, partner contacts involve over 80 cities and regions in Russia, as well as 110 in Germany, ranging from Moscow and Berlin, St Petersburg and Hamburg to small towns in both countries.
“Our country sincerely hopes for expanded and multi-faceted cooperation between Russian and German cities. This will promote expanded bilateral relations and guarantee security and stability in Europe.”