Mr Medvedev said in his message of congratulations:
“As a hero city and a city of toil, Sevastopol has taken part in truly epoch-making events. It is the cradle of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, with which it has always shared everything – the bitter taste of defeat and the triumph of victory. No matter what trials the Fleet, Sevastopol and its residents have faced they have always come through with dignity, growing only stronger and more steadfast.
You have reason to be proud of your city’s sons and daughters – the legendary admirals, valiant sailors and soldiers, outstanding scientists, writers, poets, artists and performers, all who were nurtured by this soil, all who have brought it glory and have forever entered the chronicles of our common history.
It is pleasing to see you preserving the memory of Sevastopol’s greatness and the military feats of its defenders and adding your own contribution to the city’s fine traditions of labour and achievement”.
Mr Medvedev’s congratulations were delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov.